Rabies

Most travellers do not need a booster after completing a full rabies vaccination course. However:

• A one-off booster may be recommended if you are travelling to a rabies-risk area and it has been more than 1 year since your first course.
• If you are at ongoing risk through work (for example, handling animals in affected regions), a booster may be advised after 1 year, followed by regular boosters every few years.

Even if you are fully vaccinated, urgent medical care and additional doses are still required if you are bitten or scratched.

The vaccine is often recommended to travellers spending extended time in areas where rabies is common - particularly some countries in Asia, Africa, Central & South America, and parts of Eastern Europe, especially in rural settings or when working closely with animals. A travel nurse can advise you if the vaccine is suitable for your circumstances. If you would like advice before proceeding, you can book an appointment with our travel nurse here. .

It may not be suitable for people with severe allergies to vaccine ingredients, or in very specific medical circumstances. If you are unsure, please speak to your GP or one of our doctors before booking.

Rabies is a serious viral infection that affects the brain and nervous system. Once symptoms develop, it is almost always fatal. The virus is usually spread through the bite, scratch, or lick of an infected animal, most often dogs, bats, or wild mammals.

Rabies is still widespread across Asia, Africa, Central and South America, and parts of Eastern Europe. It is rare in Western Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand.

A full course usually involves 3 doses given over several weeks. In some circumstances, a rapid course can be given - 3 doses within a week - but in this case a further booster at one year is required to complete the course.

Most people tolerate the vaccine well. The most common side effects are soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or headache. These usually settle within a day or two. Serious side effects are very rare.