Rabies

Rabies Vaccine for Travel

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Rabies Vaccine

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease transmitted to humans usually by a bite or scratch from a rabid animal (usually a dog). Once symptoms are present, rabies is almost always fatal.

Rabies in animals occurs in ALL continents except Antarctica. Approximately 60,000 people die from rabies each year. The majority of those deaths are in Asia and Africa.

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Vaccination Pricing

£95 Per dose

£285 Per Course of 3

Signs & Symptoms

The virus attacks the central nervous system causing, progressive damage to the brain and spinal cord.

Prevention

Contact with wild or domestic animals during travel should be avoided.

The Vaccination

Ages (Years) Doses Required Schedule Time before travel Boost required at
2 – 85 3 0, 7, 28 days Last dose up to day before* 2 – 10 years depending on risk
18 – 65 3 0, 3, 7** Last dose up to day before* 2 – 10 years depending on risk

*Vaccine most effective if given time to become active. Some immunity will be provided for this vaccine if given up to the day before travel.

** accelerated schedule

How do you catch Rabies?

Rabies is a viral disease that is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. The virus responsible for rabies is typically present in the saliva of infected animals. Here are the primary ways in which rabies can be contracted:

  1. Animal bites: The most common mode of rabies transmission is through bites from infected animals. Typically, this occurs when a rabid animal, such as a dog, bat, raccoon, fox, or skunk, bites or scratches a person.
  2. Saliva contact: Direct contact of infected saliva with broken skin, mucous membranes, or the eyes, nose, or mouth can also lead to transmission. This can occur if infected saliva comes into contact with an open wound or mucous membranes without a visible bite or scratch.
  3. Inhalation of aerosolized virus: Although extremely rare, in certain circumstances, such as in laboratory settings or caves with high concentrations of infected bats, inhalation of aerosolized virus particles can result in rabies transmission.

It's important to note that rabies is not transmitted through casual contact, such as touching or petting an infected animal or contact with blood, urine, or feces. Additionally, human-to-human transmission of rabies is extremely rare.

Preventing rabies primarily involves avoiding contact with potentially rabid animals. Vaccination against rabies is also available and recommended for individuals at high risk of exposure, such as those who work with animals or live in areas where rabies is endemic.

If you have been bitten or scratched by an animal, particularly one that may be rabid, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Prompt administration of post-exposure prophylaxis, which includes a series of rabies vaccinations and sometimes rabies immune globulin, can prevent the development of rabies after exposure to the virus.

Who is at risk from Rabies?

Any individual who is exposed to the rabies virus is at risk of developing rabies. However, certain factors can increase the risk of exposure and the severity of the disease. Here are some groups that are considered to be at higher risk:

  1. People in regions with high rabies prevalence: Rabies is more common in certain regions of the world, particularly in parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Individuals living in or traveling to these areas may face a higher risk of exposure.
  2. People with occupational exposure: Certain occupations, such as veterinarians, animal handlers, wildlife workers, and laboratory personnel working with the rabies virus, have a higher risk of exposure to infected animals and the rabies virus.
  3. Individuals with close contact to animals: People who work closely with animals, including veterinarians, animal shelter workers, and pet owners, may have an increased risk of exposure to rabid animals.
  4. Travelers and adventure seekers: Travelers engaging in activities such as exploring caves, camping, or interacting with wildlife may encounter rabid animals in regions where rabies is prevalent.
  5. Children: Children are at a higher risk of contracting rabies due to their interactions with animals and potential inability to recognize and report bites or scratches.
  6. Individuals with compromised immune systems: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing immunosuppressive treatment, may be at higher risk of developing severe rabies symptoms if exposed to the virus.

It's important to note that prompt medical attention is crucial for anyone who has been bitten, scratched, or exposed to potentially rabid animals. Post-exposure prophylaxis, which includes a series of rabies vaccinations and sometimes rabies immune globulin, can effectively prevent the development of rabies if administered in a timely manner after exposure. Vaccination against rabies is also recommended for individuals at high risk of exposure, such as those with occupational risks or travelers visiting areas with high rabies prevalence.

Symptoms of Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and, if left untreated, is almost always fatal. The symptoms of rabies can vary depending on the stage of the infection. The following are the typical progression of symptoms seen in rabies:

  1. Incubation period: The incubation period for rabies can range from a few days to several years, but it is usually around 1-3 months. During this period, there are typically no visible signs or symptoms.
  2. Prodromal stage: This stage lasts for 2-10 days and is characterized by nonspecific flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, fatigue, and discomfort at the site of the bite or exposure.
  3. Furious (encephalitic) rabies: This form of rabies accounts for the majority of cases. Symptoms during this stage may include:
    • Agitation, restlessness, and anxiety
    • Irritability and aggression
    • Hallucinations and delirium
    • Hydrophobia (fear of water) due to spasms in the throat and difficulty swallowing
    • Hypersalivation (excessive saliva production)
    • Seizures
    • Muscle spasms and paralysis
  1. Paralytic (dumb) rabies: This form of rabies is less common but progresses more slowly. Symptoms include:
    • Muscle weakness and loss of coordination
    • Paralysis, starting from the site of the bite and spreading gradually
    • Difficulty in speaking and swallowing
    • Respiratory difficulties

As the disease progresses, the symptoms worsen, leading to coma and eventually death. Once symptoms appear, there is no known cure for rabies, which is why prevention through vaccination and immediate medical attention after exposure is crucial.

It's important to note that the progression of symptoms can vary, and not all individuals may experience the exact sequence of symptoms. If you suspect exposure to the rabies virus or exhibit any of the aforementioned symptoms, it is vital to seek medical attention immediately.

What are the Rabies Risk Areas?

Rabies Risk Areas

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