UK issues travel advisory vs terrorism threats, rabies in PHL

The United Kingdom (UK) warned its nationals in the Philippines on Tuesday (Manila time) not only against terrorism threats but also against rabies. In its updated travel advisory, the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) said "there is a risk of rabies throughout the Philippines. Deaths from rabies have been reported in 2010. If bitten or scratched by an animal you should seek medical attention without delay." Rabies is a viral disease that causes acute encephalitis or inflammation of the brain. It is transmitted commonly through a bite from an infected animal and may be fatal if not treated immediately. The rabies virus can infect the central nervous system, ultimately causing disease in the brain and death. The symptoms include fever, headache, general weakness and discomfort. As the disease advances, the symptoms may include insomnia, anxiety, confusion, slight or partial paralysis, excitation, hallucinations, agitation, hypersalivation, difficulty swallowing, and hydrophobia. Terrorism threats Meanwhile, the FCO maintained that there is a high threat from terrorism throughout the Philippines. "Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Such places could include, but are not limited to, airports, shopping malls, places of worship etc.," it said. – VVP, GMANews.TV