Rabies vaccination (Pre-exposure Only)

About the vaccine

• When to get vaccinated: You should aim to get your first dose ideally five weeks before travelling to ensure you will be able to complete the course in time.
• Course: The course consists of three vaccines. The second dose is given seven days after the first dose. The third dose should be given three weeks after the second dose.
•  Accelerated course: If you’re travelling at short notice, you may be able to have the third dose two weeks after the second.
• Boosters: The rabies vaccine protects you for 10 years. If you are working with animals or are otherwise at a higher risk, more frequent boosters may be recommended.
• How it is given: Injection in the upper arm.
• Side effects: The vaccine can cause mild side effects such as rash, a high temperature, nausea or muscle aches.
• Children: The rabies vaccine can be given from birth.
• Additional precautions: Avoid touching animals while abroad. If you are bitten or scratched by any animal, wash the wound and seek medical attention immediately.
•  Risk if you contract the disease: Rabies is usually fatal. There is no cure for rabies.

Symptoms of Rabies:

Once symptoms occur it is almost always fatal, which is why a rabies vaccination before travelling to high-risk areas is so important.

Symptoms include:

• High temperature
• Soreness at the site of the bite
• Headache

Symptoms few days after bite can include:

• Muscle ache
• Hallucinations
• Difficulty breathing/swallowing
• Paralysis

How to prevent Rabies:

• Avoid contact with animals, particularly if they look unwell
• Keep surrounding areas clean to avoid attracting animals
• Avoid picking up animals

Is there a Rabies vaccination?

There is a Rabies vaccination to help prevent contracting the disease You will need three doses of the vaccine over a period of 28 days, so you need to start it at least 1 month before you plan to travel.

You should consider taking the rabies vaccine if you are planning to stay for a month or more in high-risk areas (particularly if you won’t have access to medical care), planning to do activities that with increased risk of exposure to animals with rabies, such as running or cycling.

How much does the Rabies Vaccination Service cost?

The Rabies vaccine costs £140 per DOSE, you need three doses to complete the course