Rabies vaccination

What is rabies?

Rabies is a serious viral infection of the central nervous system, which is almost invariably fatal. You can get infected through the saliva of infected animals (especially dogs, foxes, bats, cats). Whenever viruses reach the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose or mouth as a result of licking injured areas of skin, biting or scratching of animals or when the animal's saliva gets on the mucous membrane of the eyes, nose or mouth through unwashed hands. The infection causes seizures, aggressive behavior, coma and death due to respiratory paralysis in humans and animals. The disease often only begins months, sometimes even years after contact with the virus.

‍

Who should be vaccinated against rabies?

If you are planning a trip to countries with a high risk of rabies (especially Asia and Africa), especially for long-term stays (over 4 weeks), inadequate local medical care, a lack of modern vaccines and immunoglobulin, a prophylactic vaccination is recommended. However, simple travel or residence conditions or activities with an increased risk of exposure (e.g. bicycle or motorcycle tours) and predictable handling of mammals, including bats, also require such vaccination as prevention.

Young children and children in particular should be generously vaccinated, as they like to seek contact with animals and at the same time may not (be able to) always report on risk contacts.

‍

How and when is the rabies vaccination carried out and what must be considered?

The rabies vaccination is a dead vaccine and is given into the muscle. The preventive vaccination consists of three injections into the upper arm muscle on days 0, 7 and 21 (or 28) for adults and children. There is also a rapid vaccination schedule should you plan a trip soon. For long-term protection, a booster vaccination should be given after one year, then depending on the risk of exposure.

Important: After contact with an animal suspected of rabies, every person must be vaccinated. If you have already received a few vaccinations, the risk is lower and you will receive fewer revaccinations.

‍

Should I get vaccinated against rabies?

To find out which vaccinations are appropriate for your planned trip, simply arrange a Appointment for travel medicine consultation in one of our avi practices and talk to our team of doctors. The team will tell you what you should consider so that you can travel safely and with peace of mind on your next trip.