Rabies
5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT RABIES AND THE VACCINE
Updated December 2023
If you are travelling abroad in places with wild animals, you may ask yourself “Do I need a rabies shot before I go?”. Here are 5 things about rabies vaccines to help you decide.
1. IF YOU ARE EXPOSED, YOU NEED TO SEEK CARE IMMEDIATELY WHETHER OR NOT YOU HAD THE PRE-EXPOSURE PROPHLAXIS SERIES (PrEP)
First, and foremost, understand that if you are bit or have a potential exposure, such as waking up in an enclosed space with a bat, you need to seek care. It may turn out that you do not need treatment based on a risk assessment by a health care provider but seek care immediately.
The recommended POSTexposure prophylaxis (PEP) consists of a dose of human rabies immune globulin (HRIG) and rabies vaccine given on the day of the rabies exposure, and then a dose of vaccine given again on days 3, 7, and 14 per the CDC. That is for an individual who did not complete the PRE-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) rabies vaccine series. If the PrEP was completed, then no HRIG is needed and vaccines are given on days 0 and 3.
2. THE VACCINE IS EXPENSIVE
The vaccine can cost upwards of $400 per dose. Some insurance plans will cover it, some only cover it if you were exposed and some do not cover it at all. You can contact your insurance plan directly to find out.
3. YOU WILL NEED MULTIPLE DOSES
The recommended PrEP is vaccine given on days 0 and 7 (changed from 3 to 2 doses in May 2022). As mentioned above, if you have an exposure you will need 2 or 4 doses depending on your vaccination status.
4. PROTECTIONG FROM THE VACCINE DOES NOT LAST FOREVER
Booster doses are recommended depending on your risk level and how long since your last rabies vaccine. For example, if you are traveling for a long trip to areas where rabid dogs are common and it has been more than 3 years since your last rabies vaccine, you likely would repeat the PrEP series.
5. MOST US TRAVELERS DO NOT NEED IT
Getting PrEP is recommended if you are likely to come in contact with animals in a place where dog or other animal rabies is common and/or immediate access to appropriate medical care might be limited. For most people traveling abroad, the risk is low especially if you exercise precaution and avoid animals while traveling. Kids actually are more likely to contract it because they are more likely to play with animals and to not report a bite.
Still wondering if you need rabies vaccines before your trip? Book a consultation with us now!
At Odyssey, we believe in making it as convenient as possible for you to get the care you need for travel. You already have enough on your plate to prepare for your trip. This part should be easy! We have been doing this for over 8 years. We know what you need and will answer your questions. We also are 5-Star rated on Google and provide excellent customer service to all international travelers in Washington State.
Are you ready check this part of your trip off your list? Then book an appointment with us now!