Rabies Vaccination
Rabies is a dangerous viral infection endemic to many countries. The rabies vaccine is used to prevent an infection prior to travelling to a high risk area. Due to availability of the different brands of the rabies vaccine, the brand of vaccine offered to you may vary by clinic, which will affect the price. We will endeavour to offer you the choice of either vaccine available, however due to supplier shortages this may not always be possible. Your nurse or pharmacist will advise of the price as part of your consultation.
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 requirements for booster doses depend on an individual’s likely frequency of ongoing exposure to the rabies virus.
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 thoroughly and seek medical attention immediately.
Risk if you contract the disease: Rabies is usually fatal. There is no cure for rabies.