The observed or calculated probability of the occurrence of an event, Xâe.g., toxic exposure, infection, etc.âin a population relative to its exposure to a specific hazard or pathogen. Absolute risk is risk stated without any context whatsoever.
Malaria is a serious infection. It is common in tropical countries such as parts of Africa, Asia and South America. Malaria is a disease caused by a parasite called Plasmodium that lives in mosquitoes.
But rabies can occur in all areas throughout the United States except Hawaii. Rabies is a much bigger problem in other parts of the world than it is in North America, particularly in developing countries where it is most often transmitted to humans through dog bites. Areas where rabies is especially common include Africa, Asia, India, Indonesia, and Central and South America. Travelers who will be spending time in rural parts of these areas are encouraged to get vaccinated against rabies.