Travel vaccine

Rabies Pre-Exposure Vaccine

Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. A pre-exposure course before travel doesn't eliminate the need for treatment if bitten, but it buys crucial time and simplifies the post-exposure response — particularly important in areas where post-exposure vaccines may be hard to access.

What is rabies?

Rabies is a viral disease transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal — most commonly dogs in Asia and Africa, but also bats, monkeys, and other mammals. Once symptoms develop, the disease is almost universally fatal. Rapid post-exposure treatment is critical.

Who needs this vaccine?

Travellers to remote areas where access to post-exposure treatment is limited
Adventure travellers, cyclists, and trekkers in high-risk regions
Anyone spending extended time in Asia, Africa, or Central/South America
Those working with animals, or in veterinary or wildlife settings
Children, who are at higher risk due to animal contact and may not report bites

Doses & schedule

The pre-exposure course is 3 doses given on days 0, 7, and 21 (or 28). Ideally started at least 4 weeks before travel to complete the full course. Important: even after vaccination, any animal bite or scratch abroad still requires urgent medical attention and post-exposure treatment.

Pre-exposure vaccination does not remove the need for post-exposure treatment after a bite — it simplifies that treatment and removes the need for rabies immunoglobulin, which is often unavailable abroad. Always seek medical help immediately after any animal contact.

Frequently asked questions

Yes — always seek medical attention after a bite. However, having had the pre-exposure course means you only need 2 further doses of vaccine (rather than 4–5), and crucially, you do not need rabies immunoglobulin, which is often unavailable in the countries where rabies is most common.

Three doses over 21–28 days form the pre-exposure course. Our clinician will assess your suitability and advise on scheduling to fit your travel dates.

Boosters are typically recommended every 3–5 years for those at continued risk (e.g. frequent travellers or animal workers). A blood test can check your antibody levels if unsure.

Book your Rabies vaccination

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