Your one stop Vaccination Clinic

Rabies Vaccine

Rabies Vaccine

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that is typically transmitted to humans through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, most commonly a dog. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal, making prompt preventive treatment essential following any potential exposure. Rabies is present in animals across every continent except Antarctica. Each year, it causes an estimated 60,000 human deaths worldwide, with the vast majority occurring in Asia and Africa, where access to vaccines and medical care may be limited.

Vaccination Pricing

£90 Per dose
£180 Per Course of 2

Signs & Symptoms

The virus attacks the central nervous system causing, progressive damage to the brain and spinal cord.

Prevention

Contact with wild or domestic animals during travel should be avoided.

Evans Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01684 575 216

Email: malverntravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

malverntravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

231 Worcester Road, Malvern, WR14 1SU

Claines Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01905 453 703

Email: worcestertravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

worcesterravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

153 Ombersley Road, Worcester, WR3 7BX

The Vaccination

Ages (Years) Doses Required Schedule Time before travel Boost required at
2 – 85 2 0, 7* days Last dose up to day before* 2 – 10 years depending on risk
18 – 65 2 0, 7* days Last dose up to day before* 2 – 10 years depending on risk

Vaccine most effective if given time to become active. Some immunity will be provided for this vaccine if given up to the day before travel.
* 3 doses required for immunocompromised individuals

Rabies is a severe and almost universally fatal viral infection that affects the central nervous system, leading to inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by the rabies virus, a member of the lyssavirus family, and is one of the oldest known infectious diseases. Rabies can infect all warm-blooded mammals, including humans, and is most commonly associated with dog bites in areas where canine rabies is still widespread. Once the virus reaches the brain and symptoms begin to appear, the disease is almost always fatal, making prevention and urgent medical intervention absolutely critical. Although rabies is now rare in the UK due to strict animal control measures, it remains a serious public health concern in many parts of the world, particularly in Asia and Africa.

Rabies is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, most commonly a dog, although other mammals such as bats, foxes, monkeys, and raccoons can also carry the virus. The virus is present in the saliva and nervous tissue of infected animals and enters the body through broken skin or mucous membranes, such as the eyes or mouth. Rare cases have occurred through organ transplants or inhalation of aerosolised virus in laboratory settings. Prevention is centred on avoiding contact with potentially infected animals, particularly strays or wildlife, and ensuring pets are vaccinated. Travellers to high-risk areas (especially those planning extended stays, engaging in outdoor activities, or working with animals) should consider pre-exposure rabies vaccination. In the event of a suspected exposure, immediate and thorough wound cleansing with soap and water is vital, followed by urgent medical attention to begin post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which includes a series of rabies vaccinations and, in some cases, rabies immunoglobulin. PEP is highly effective if given before symptoms appear.

Symptoms of rabies may take several weeks or even months to appear after exposure, depending on the location of the bite and the amount of virus introduced. The incubation period is typically between 20 and 60 days, though it can be shorter or longer. Early symptoms are non-specific and may include fever, headache, fatigue, and discomfort or tingling at the site of the bite. As the virus progresses towards the brain, more serious neurological symptoms develop, including confusion, agitation, hallucinations, hydrophobia (fear of water), excessive salivation, muscle spasms, and paralysis. Once these symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal, even with intensive care. At this stage, there is no effective treatment, which is why early preventive action is absolutely essential.

The rabies vaccine provides long-term protection, particularly when the full course is completed. Pre-exposure vaccination usually involves three doses given over a period of 21 to 28 days. For most travellers, a booster is not required for at least 3 to 5 years, though those at continued high risk—such as veterinary workers or laboratory staff—may need more frequent boosters depending on their exposure risk and antibody levels. In the case of post-exposure prophylaxis, the vaccination schedule varies depending on whether the individual has previously been vaccinated. Those who have not received prior immunisation will require both rabies immunoglobulin and a full course of vaccine, while previously vaccinated individuals typically need only two booster doses. The vaccine is highly effective at preventing the onset of symptoms when administered promptly and appropriately.

Rabies is found on every continent except Antarctica and is considered a risk in over 150 countries. Vaccination is particularly recommended for travellers visiting regions where rabies is endemic, especially in parts of Asia (including India, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines), Africa (such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia), Central and South America, and some areas of Eastern Europe and the Middle East. Those at higher risk include long-term travellers, individuals staying in remote areas with limited access to medical facilities, and people engaging in activities such as cycling, hiking, or working with animals. The rabies vaccine is also essential for people undertaking certain occupations abroad, such as veterinary work, wildlife research, or humanitarian aid. Travellers should consult a healthcare professional at least four to six weeks before departure to assess the need for vaccination based on their itinerary and activities.

The rabies vaccine is generally very safe and well tolerated. Most side effects are mild and temporary, typically including soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Some individuals may experience headache, muscle aches, fatigue, or a low-grade fever after vaccination. These symptoms usually resolve on their own within a couple of days. Serious side effects are extremely rare, but, as with any vaccine, there is a small risk of allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), which is why it is important to inform your healthcare provider of any known allergies or previous vaccine reactions. Overall, the benefits of rabies vaccination—particularly in areas where access to post-exposure treatment may be delayed—far outweigh the minimal risk of side effects. The vaccine remains a vital tool in protecting against one of the world’s deadliest but preventable diseases.

Use the map below to identify areas of risk for travel.

Simply call the clinic of your choice or send us an email enquiry, and our travel specialists will get back to you as soon as possible.

We’re Waiting To Help You

The Malvern Travel Clinic offers a wide range of vaccines and travel vaccinations.

Contact us today to get your and your loved ones protected.

Same Day Appointments

We are pleased to offer same-day appointments at Malvern Travel Clinic, to ensure you receive prompt and efficient care when you need it most.

Expert Pharmacists

Our team includes expert pharmacists who are dedicated to providing you with personalised and professional healthcare advice.

Competitive Pricing

We offer competitive pricing on our vaccinations to ensure that essential healthcare is both affordable and accessible to everyone.

Striving to cover all your health and medical treatment requirements

We offer a wide range of medical treatments for you and your loved ones.

get in touch