Rabies

Rabies Vaccine

Rabies vaccination may be recommended for some travellers after an assessment of their itinerary and activities. At Westerhailes Pharmacy in Edinburgh, ask the travel team about preparing for your trip and arranging a suitable course.

This serious infection is almost always fatal once symptoms develop. Prevention and prompt medical care after possible exposure are essential.

Mode of Transmission

Infection is usually passed through a bite or scratch from an infected animal. It is more common in parts of Asia, Africa, and Central and South America.

Rabies vaccination planning

Your clinician will confirm the course appropriate for your age, health and previous vaccination history.

Bring your departure date, destinations and any existing vaccination records to the consultation.

If you are leaving soon, contact the team promptly to discuss what can be arranged.

Preventing Infection

Avoid contact with animals whilst travelling such as cats, dogs, monkeys.

When to vaccinate

Seek travel health advice well before departure so there is time to review your plans and complete any recommended course.

Our travel clinic guide explains how to arrange a consultation and check prices. For another outdoor-travel vaccination enquiry, see the separate tick-borne encephalitis information. Recommendations depend on your itinerary and assessment.

If an animal bites or scratches you

Get medical help immediately after a possible exposure, even if you have already been vaccinated. If you are abroad, do not wait until you return home. A routine pre-travel appointment is not a substitute for urgent care. See the NHS rabies guidance for more information.