'A monkey bit my daughter in Bali and it cost me $950'

This mum warns about the not-so-hidden dangers of getting up close and personal with animals when travelling.

Planning a trip abroad? You may want to heed this warning to save yourself some big bucks.

During a visit to the Ubud Monkey Forest in Bali, Aussie mum Amanda Tabone found herself facing a $950 medical bill after her 10-year-old daughter, Eva, was bitten by a monkey.

According to Yahoo! News, the incident occurred just 10 minutes into their visit when a worker encouraged a young monkey to interact with guests. 

As Eva sat on a bench, another monkey approached, surprising her, and sat on her lap. The monkey the worker was handling then got 'jealous' and bit Eva on the back.

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What's a monkey bite when you have two brothers?

Despite being shocked, Eva remained unfazed by her tough demeanour from having two older brothers. 

Amanda swiftly cleaned the bite with hand sanitiser and sought assistance from an on-site nurse, who assured them that the monkeys undergo regular virus testing.

However, a few hours later, concern set in as they discovered the local hospital was out of the required vaccine due to numerous monkey bite cases. 

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Eva got a massive shock when the monkey bit into her. Source: Yahoo News

Amanda had to resort to another clinic, resulting in a $950 expense for three doses of rabies vaccine, immunoglobulin, and herpes medication.

Back home, Eva continues her vaccine regimen, sharing the adventure with her schoolmates.

However, now more cautious, Amanda plans to get vaccinated against rabies before her next Bali trip with her boys, opting to avoid monkey interactions.

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The monkey left quite a mark on this little lady. Source: Yahoo News

The danger is always there

The Ubud Monkey Forest defended its position, stating that the monkeys are wild and unpredictable, urging visitors to follow safety guidelines. 

This incident follows a broader warning from NSW Health for Australians to avoid physical contact with animals in popular tourist destinations like Bali, where over 145 returning travellers required treatment for animal bites and scratches this year.

NSW Health recommends thorough wound cleaning, use of antiseptic solutions, and seeking prompt medical advice for preventive measures against rabies, tetanus, and other infections. 

If unwell after travelling, immediate contact with a GP or emergency services is advised.

Originally published as 'A monkey bit my daughter in Bali and it cost me $950'