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Rabies Vaccination: Protect Yourself Against Rabies Disease

Rabies is a life-threatening viral infection that attacks the nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is most commonly spread through bites or scratches from infected animals, particularly dogs, bats, and other wild animals. Once symptoms of rabies develop, the disease is almost always fatal, making prevention through vaccination essential. 

Rabies is present in most countries around the world, with only a few rabies-free regions. Each year, an estimated 45,000 to 50,000 people lose their lives to rabies, primarily in developing nations. Without prompt treatment, rabies is invariably fatal, highlighting the critical need for early prevention. Find more information about Rabies via the World Health Organization here

 

Image of a stray dog standing on a city street, highlighting the issue of stray animals in urban environments. Learn more about animal welfare and the importance of vaccination to protect against rabies.

What is Rabies?

Rabies disease is caused by the rabies virus, which attacks the brain and spinal cord. Humans can contract rabies when bitten or scratched by a rabid animal, or if their open wounds come into contact with the animal’s saliva. The disease is prevalent in many parts of the world, particularly in Asia, India and Africa, where rabies in stray dogs is a significant risk. It’s crucial to seek immediate rabies treatment if you suspect exposure, but vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection.

How Does the Rabies Virus Spread?

The rabies virus is primarily transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, usually via bites, scratches, or open wounds. When an infected animal bites, the virus enters the body and travels through the peripheral nerves, slowly making its way toward the brain. As the rabies virus spreads, it causes inflammation in the brain and spinal cord, leading to serious and often life-threatening neurological symptoms.

Common carriers of the rabies virus include:

  • Dogs: In many parts of the world, particularly in Asia and Africa, dogs are the leading source of rabies disease transmission to humans.
  • Bats: In regions like North and South America, bats are significant carriers of rabid rabies, and even a small bite or scratch can transmit the virus.
  • Foxes: In Europe and North America, foxes are frequent carriers, especially in rural or forested areas.
  • Monkeys: In countries with large monkey populations, such as India and Southeast Asia, bites or scratches from monkeys can pose a rabies risk.
  • Raccoons: In the United States, raccoons are known carriers, particularly in the eastern and southern states.

 

Once bitten or exposed to rabid rabies, the virus can remain dormant for a period before reaching the central nervous system, where it triggers physical and neurological symptoms. If left untreated, rabies disease is almost always fatal, which is why prevention through rabies vaccination is critical, especially for those at higher risk of exposure.

 

Image of a raccoon in a winter setting, highlighting wildlife encounters and the importance of rabies prevention. Learn more about rabies vaccination and safety tips for avoiding exposure to rabid animals.

What Happens if Humans Get Rabies? Common Rabies Symptoms

Early rabies symptoms can often be mistaken for common illnesses like the flu, as they typically include mild signs such as fever, headache, fatigue, and general discomfort. However, as the rabies virus continues to spread within the body, it targets the central nervous system, and the symptoms rapidly become more severe and alarming.

Some of the more advanced rabies symptoms include:

  • Anxiety and confusion: As the virus affects the brain, individuals may experience restlessness, disorientation, and increasing fear or unease.
  • Agitation and hallucinations: Those infected may display erratic behaviour, agitation, or even experience vivid hallucinations as the disease progresses.
  • Difficulty swallowing and hydrophobia: One of the hallmark signs of rabies is difficulty swallowing, which is often linked to a fear of water (hydrophobia). The sight, smell, or even thought of water can trigger spasms in the throat, making it nearly impossible to drink.
  • Paralysis: As the virus continues to attack the nervous system, partial or full paralysis may occur, often starting with the limbs and eventually spreading to the entire body.

 

Unfortunately, without immediate rabies treatment, the disease is nearly always fatal once these symptoms appear. This is because rabies, once it reaches the brain, causes irreversible damage. The fatality rate for untreated rabies is virtually 100%, making early intervention and rabies vaccination essential for survival.

According to the World Health Organization, 95% of rabies cases occur in Asia and Africa. For travellers visiting popular destinations in Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam, taking preventive measures is critical. This includes receiving a rabies vaccination prior to travel and knowing what steps to take if exposed to potentially rabid rabies.

Who Needs the Rabies Vaccine?

You should consider the rabies jab if:

  • You are travelling to or living in a region where rabies is common.
  • You work with animals, especially in veterinary or wildlife conservation roles.
  • You engage in outdoor activities like hiking or camping in areas where exposure to wild animals is possible.

 

Even if vaccinated, it’s vital to seek medical advice IMMEDIATELY after any potential exposure to the rabies virus for a booster dose.

How Effective is the Rabies Vaccine?

The rabies disease vaccine is highly effective at preventing infection when administered before or shortly after exposure. For both domestic and international travellers, receiving the rabies jab in advance means that fewer doses of post-exposure treatment are needed if you are bitten. It also provides peace of mind, knowing that you’re protected against a deadly disease.

Pre-Exposure Rabies Vaccine: Why You Should Get Vaccinated Before Travelling

The rabies vaccination, commonly known as the rabies jab, is a critical immunisation for anyone at risk of exposure to infected animals. If you’re planning to travel to areas where rabies disease is prevalent, getting vaccinated before your trip is essential for your safety. Popular tourist spots like the monkey parks in Bali or Phi Phi Island in Thailand are known for frequent animal interactions, increasing the risk of contracting rabid rabies from a bite or scratch.

 

Monkeys in a forest temple setting, highlighting the natural beauty and wildlife interactions at destinations like Bali’s Sacred Monkey Forest. Learn about the rabies vaccinations and staying safe when visiting regions with wild animals.

How Does the Pre-Exposure Rabies Vaccine Work?

Pre-exposure rabies vaccination is highly effective and involves a series of injections that protect you from contracting the virus if exposed. The vaccination schedule typically varies depending on your travel plans:

  • Long-term travellers or those handling animals: A full course of three doses administered on days 0, 7, and 21 or 28.
  • Short-term travellers: A shorter course of two doses, given on days 0 and 7, or days 0 and 14.

 

These doses build immunity against the rabies virus, offering strong protection during your travels.

Why You Shouldn’t Skip Pre-Exposure Vaccination

If you don’t receive the pre-exposure rabies vaccination, the risk becomes far greater if you are bitten or scratched by an animal. Without prior immunisation, you will need immediate post-exposure treatment, which includes several doses of the rabies vaccine AND rabies immunoglobulin to prevent the virus from spreading. This treatment can be difficult to access in remote or developing areas, making pre-exposure immunisation the best preventive measure.

Rabies Treatment After Exposure: What to Do If You’ve Been Exposed to Rabies

If you believe you’ve been exposed to rabid rabies, it is critical to seek urgent medical attention immediately. Rabies is a life-threatening virus, and once symptoms appear, it is almost always fatal. Whether you’re in a high-risk area or have had direct contact with an infected animal, receiving the right rabies treatment is essential for your safety.

What If You Haven’t Had the Pre-Exposure Vaccine?

If you haven’t received the pre-exposure rabies vaccine and suspect you’ve been exposed to rabies, receiving the post-exposure vaccination without delay is crucial. The post-exposure treatment schedule typically consists of four doses given on days 0, 3, 7, and 14.

In addition to the vaccine, HRIG (Human Rabies Immunoglobulin) is often required, especially if the exposure was from an unvaccinated or wild animal. This treatment should be administered within 7 days of the bite or scratch and is dosed at 20 units per kilogram of body weight. However, HRIG is expensive and hard to find in developing countries, such as in Bali, where only the rabies vaccine is typically administered.

For those travelling to remote or developing regions, it’s important to be aware that ERIG (Equine Rabies Immunoglobulin) may be used as an alternative, dosed at 40 units per kilogram of body weight.

Why Rabies Post-Exposure Treatment Is Critical

Without proper treatment, rabies is almost always fatal once it progresses. Seeking immediate advice and treatment from a qualified travel doctor is essential for a successful outcome. At the International Travel Vaccination Clinic, we provide expert travel health consultations, rabies vaccinations, and personalised advice to help keep you safe during your travels.

 

Scenic view of Rio de Janeiro’s iconic mountains and coastline, showcasing Brazil’s breathtaking natural beauty. Discover travel tips, health advice, and vaccination requirements for visiting Rio de Janeiro and other popular destinations.

3 Ways to Prevent the Rabies Virus on Your Holiday

Even if you’ve had the rabies vaccination, it’s still important to take precautions and avoid situations that could expose you to the virus. Vaccination provides strong protection, but staying vigilant helps minimise any risk of infection.

  1. Steer clear of wild or stray animals, especially when in regions where rabies disease is prevalent. While some animals may seem friendly, they can still carry the virus, and it’s difficult to tell if they are infected just by looking. Be particularly cautious with dogs, bats, monkeys, and other wildlife.
  2. If you are bitten or scratched by any animal, it’s vital to act quickly. Immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes to help reduce the risk of infection. Then, seek medical advice as soon as possible—even if you’ve been vaccinated. A healthcare professional can determine whether additional rabies treatment is necessary.
  3. When travelling, make sure to follow local guidance on rabies control. Different countries may have specific advice on how to avoid exposure, especially in rural or high-risk areas. Before your trip, check whether you need a rabies jab and take note of any updates on vaccination requirements in your destination country. Staying informed and cautious will help you enjoy your travels safely.

Get Your Rabies Vaccination in Sydney: Protect Against Rabies Disease at the International Travel Vaccination Centre

If you’re planning to travel or are at risk of exposure, getting the rabies jab is a crucial step in protecting your health. At the International Travel Vaccination Centre, our expert travel doctors provide comprehensive advice and administer the rabies vaccination at our Sydney-based clinics to safeguard you from this deadly virus. Whether you’re travelling to high-risk areas like Africa and Asia, or working with animals, our clinics offer convenient and professional immunisation for rabies. Don’t take chances with your health — book your rabies vaccine appointment online now.

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Call us: 1300 55 70 70

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Notice Due to compulsory Acquisition of 37 Bligh street by Metro Development ITVC(International Travel Vaccination Centre) now relocated to: Suite 603 Level 6 BMA House 135-137 Macquarie street Sydney NSW 2000
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