Rabies Vaccination Service
Rabies is a serious viral infection spread through the saliva of infected animals, most commonly through bites, scratches, or licks to broken skin. Although rare in the UK, rabies remains a risk in many parts of Asia, Africa, Central and South America, and some areas of Eastern Europe.
Citywide Health offers pre travel rabies vaccination appointments, helping protect travellers who may be at increased risk due to their destination, activities, or duration of travel.
Who Should Consider Rabies Vaccination?
Rabies vaccination may be recommended for:
- Travellers visiting countries where rabies is common
- Long-stay travellers and backpackers
- Cyclists, runners and adventure travellers
- Children travelling to high-risk destinations
- Those working with animals or wildlife
- Travellers visiting remote areas where medical treatment may be difficult to access
Vaccination Schedules
Standard Schedule (Preferred)
Three doses are given on:
- Day 0
- Day 7
- Day 28
This schedule provides the best-established protection and is recommended whenever travel plans allow. The third dose can be given on day 21 is there is insufficient time before travel.
Accelerated Schedule
For travellers leaving at shorter notice, an accelerated schedule may be available:
- Day 0
- Day 3
- Day 7
Booster Schedule
A booster dose may be recommended later for those with ongoing or future risk of exposure.
Our pharmacist will advise whether this option is suitable based on your destination, travel plans and current guidance.
Important Information
Even if you have received rabies vaccinations before travel, you must seek urgent medical attention after any animal bite, scratch, or potential exposure. Vaccination simplifies treatment and removes the need for some emergency medications, but further treatment is still required.
Citywide Health can assess your itinerary and advise whether rabies vaccination is recommended as part of your personalised travel health consultation.