Rabies Vaccination: Essential Information for Travellers and At-Risk Individuals
What is Rabies?
Rabies is a fatal viral infection that affects the central nervous system. It is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, typically via bites or scratches. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal, which makes prevention through vaccination critically important.
Animals That Can Transmit Rabies
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Dogs (the most common source globally)
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Bats
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Monkeys
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Cats
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Foxes, raccoons, and other wild mammals
Who Should Get the Rabies Vaccine?
Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for:
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Travelers spending extended time in rabies-endemic areas, especially rural or remote regions
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Adventure travelers, campers, cyclists, or runners in endemic regions
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Individuals with planned close contact with animals (e.g., veterinarians, animal handlers, researchers)
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Children living in or visiting endemic areas (they are less likely to report bites)
Types of Rabies Vaccination
1. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)
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Purpose: Prevent infection before exposure
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Schedule:
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Standard: 2 doses on day 0 and day 7
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Some countries may use 3-dose schedules (days 0, 7, and 21–28)
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Booster: May be required every 3–5 years for ongoing risk
2. Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)
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Purpose: Emergency prevention after potential exposure (bite/scratch)
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Unvaccinated individuals: 4 doses of vaccine over 14 days + rabies immunoglobulin (RIG)
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Previously vaccinated individuals: 2 booster doses (no RIG needed)
Vaccine Names and Administration
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Common vaccines: Verorab®, Rabipur®, Imovax Rabies®
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Given by intramuscular injection (usually in the deltoid)
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Approved for adults and children
Side Effects and Safety
Rabies vaccines are generally safe. Side effects may include:
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Soreness at the injection site
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Headache or fatigue
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Low-grade fever
Severe reactions are extremely rare.
Important Notes for Travelers
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Rabies is present in Asia, Africa, Central and South America, and parts of Eastern Europe.
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In many regions, reliable post-exposure treatment may be unavailable, so pre-exposure vaccination is especially important.
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Even after pre-exposure vaccination, you must still seek medical attention immediately after a bite or scratch.

Conclusion
Rabies vaccination is a vital preventive tool for travelers and professionals at risk of animal exposure. Given the disease’s high fatality rate, prevention is the only effective defense. If you’re planning travel to an at-risk area or working with animals, consult a healthcare provider well in advance (ideally at least 4 weeks before departure) to determine if rabies vaccination is recommended for you.