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Travel Clinic

Rabies

Rabies is a serious viral infection that affects the brain and nervous system. It is usually transmitted through the bite, scratch, or saliva of an infected animal. Once symptoms develop, rabies is almost always fatal, making prevention and vaccination extremely important for travellers visiting higher-risk destinations.
Price:
from £79 a dose
Number of Doses:
3 doses
Ages:
from Birth.
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What Is Rabies?

Rabies is caused by a virus that is spread through infected mammals, most commonly dogs, bats, monkeys, and other wild animals.
The virus attacks the central nervous system and can eventually affect the brain. While rabies is rare in the UK, it remains a significant health risk in many parts of the world.
Travellers should be particularly cautious when visiting countries where rabies is common and access to medical treatment may be limited.

How Is Rabies Spread?

Rabies can be transmitted through:
• Animal bites
• Animal scratches that break the skin
• Saliva entering open wounds
• Saliva coming into contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth
Even minor scratches or bites should be treated seriously if rabies exposure is suspected.

Symptoms of Rabies

Symptoms may take weeks or months to appear after exposure.
Early symptoms can include:
• Fever
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Pain or tingling around the bite area
As the infection progresses, symptoms may become more severe and can include:
• Difficulty swallowing
• Muscle spasms
• Anxiety and agitation
• Confusion
• Paralysis
• Breathing difficulties
Urgent medical treatment is essential following any potential exposure.

Who Should Consider a Rabies Vaccine?

Rabies vaccination may be recommended for:
• Travellers visiting countries where rabies is common
• Long-term travellers and backpackers
• Adventure travellers spending time outdoors
• Individuals working with animals
• Veterinary professionals
• Wildlife researchers
• Aid workers and volunteers
• Travellers visiting remote areas with limited healthcare access
Our travel health specialists can assess your itinerary and advise whether rabies vaccination is appropriate for your trip.

Rabies Vaccination Schedule

The rabies vaccine is given as a course of injections before travel.
A typical pre-exposure vaccination schedule may include:
• First dose – chosen date
• Second dose – 7 days later
• Third dose – 21 or 28 days after the first dose
The exact schedule may vary depending on current clinical guidance and your travel requirements.
Even if you have been vaccinated, you should still seek medical advice immediately following any animal bite or scratch.

Countries Where Rabies Risk May Be Higher

Rabies is present in many parts of:
• Africa
• Asia
• Central America
• South America
• Parts of Eastern Europe
Risk levels vary by country and region, and our travel health team can provide destination-specific advice.

What Should I Do If I Am Bitten or Scratched Abroad?

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling:
1. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.
2. Apply an antiseptic if available.
3. Seek urgent medical attention as soon as possible.
4. Follow local medical advice regarding post-exposure treatment.
Prompt action can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

Additional Ways to Reduce Your Risk

While travelling, you should:
• Avoid contact with unfamiliar animals
• Never feed or handle stray dogs, cats, or wildlife
• Supervise children around animals
• Stay away from monkeys and other animals at tourist attractions
• Seek immediate medical advice after any bite or scratch
Combining vaccination with sensible precautions offers the best protection.

Book Your Rabies Vaccination Today

If you are travelling to a destination where rabies may be a risk, book a travel health consultation at Rusholme Pharmacy.
Our healthcare team can assess your travel plans, discuss vaccination requirements, and provide expert advice to help keep you safe throughout your journey.
Book your Rabies Vaccination today and travel with greater confidence.

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Mon-Fri 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday 12:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Superintendent Pharmacist:
Shahid Razzaq
GPhC premesis no:
9011321
Company Registration no:
10264965

Opening Hours

Mon-Fri 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday 12:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM

INFORMATION

Superintendent Pharmacist:
Shahid Razzaq
GPhC premesis no:
9011321
Company Registration no:
10264965
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