If you’re planning a trip to regions where rabies is present, protecting yourself should be a top priority. At Sudbury Pharmacy and Travel Clinic, we regularly help travellers stay safe with timely, expert travel vaccinations. One of the most important but often overlooked immunisations is the rabies jab. Here’s everything you need to know about how the rabies vaccine works, who needs it, and what to expect.

What is Rabies?

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. It is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, most commonly via bites or scratches from dogs, bats, monkeys, and other mammals. Though rabies is rare in the UK, it is still prevalent in parts of Asia, Africa, Central and South America, and Eastern Europe.

Because rabies has no cure once symptoms begin, prevention is crucial. That’s where the rabies vaccine comes in.

How the Rabies Vaccine Protects You

The rabies vaccine works by stimulating your immune system to produce antibodies against the rabies virus. These antibodies help your body recognise and destroy the virus before it has the chance to spread to the brain and nervous system.

There are two main purposes for getting a rabies jab:

1. Pre-exposure prophylaxis – This is the preventative course recommended for travellers before they are exposed to rabies.

2. Post-exposure prophylaxis – This is the emergency course given after someone has been bitten or scratched by an animal suspected of carrying rabies.

The key difference between these two approaches lies in the timing of the vaccine and the urgency of the situation.

Pre-Exposure Rabies Vaccination

Pre-exposure rabies vaccination is ideal for travellers heading to high-risk destinations, particularly those engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, or working with animals. It is also recommended for individuals who may be in remote areas with limited access to medical care.

Dosing Schedule:

The standard pre-exposure course consists of three doses of the rabies jab:

Dose 1: Day 0 (the day of your first injection)

Dose 2: Day 7

Dose 3: Day 21 or 28

These doses help build immunity so that if you are exposed to rabies abroad, your body can respond quickly and effectively. It’s important to plan ahead—ideally starting the course at least a month before you travel.

Post-Exposure Rabies Vaccination

If you’ve been bitten or scratched by a potentially rabid animal, immediate medical attention is required. Even if you’ve had the pre-exposure rabies jab, you will still need two further doses after exposure. However, if you haven’t been vaccinated previously, the process is more urgent and intensive.

Post-exposure without prior vaccination:

• –> A series of four doses over two weeks (Day 0, 3, 7, and 14)

• –> Plus rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) on Day 0 to offer immediate protection

The immunoglobulin contains antibodies that act straight away while your body builds its own defence through the vaccine.

Post-exposure with prior vaccination:

• –> Only two booster doses (Day 0 and Day 3)

• –> No need for rabies immunoglobulin, which simplifies treatment and reduces delays

This is why getting vaccinated in advance can be so beneficial, especially in areas where access to healthcare may be limited or delayed.

Is the Rabies Jab Safe?

Yes, the rabies vaccine is safe and well-tolerated. Side effects are usually mild and may include redness or soreness at the injection site, headache, or fatigue. Serious reactions are extremely rare.

It’s also important to note that the vaccine is inactivated, meaning it does not contain any live virus and cannot cause rabies.

Why Get Vaccinated at Sudbury Pharmacy and Travel Clinic?

At Sudbury Pharmacy and Travel Clinic, we offer:

• –> Expert travel health advice tailored to your destination

• –> Convenient appointment scheduling, including evenings and weekends

• –> Full pre-exposure rabies jab courses

• –> Post-exposure support and referral guidance

We help you stay protected so you can enjoy your travels with peace of mind. Our experienced team ensures your vaccines are up to date and suitable for the countries you’ll be visiting.

Don’t Take Risks Abroad

Rabies is preventable, but only if you act early. Whether you’re going on safari, volunteering abroad, or exploring off-the-beaten-track locations, a rabies jab is a wise investment in your health.

Contact Sudbury Pharmacy and Travel Clinic today to book your consultation and take the first step in safeguarding your journey.

This blog was written on behalf of Sudbury Court Pharmacy and Travel Clinic by Pharmacy Mentor.