Rabies

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Available Immunizations

You should consider pre-exposure vaccination against rabies if:
  • You will be spending one month or more in countries where rabies exists
  • You will be travelling in rural areas, away from a major medical centre
  • You will be working in a job that may expose you to rabies. For example:
  • certain laboratory workers,
  • veterinarians,
  • animal control and wildlife workers,
  • spelunkers,
  • forest rangers,
  • conservation officers,
  • agricultural specialists
  • People whose travel abroad may involve more frequent animal contact - such as hikers in rabies-risk areas.

    • If you are going to be vaccinated, a series of 3 injections of Imovax® will be required. You will receive:

  • two injections, one week apart
  • a third injection, two weeks after the second injection.

    • Vaccination is normally given after contact with a suspect animal. Even if you have received three injections of vaccine, you must still see a doctor for prompt medical treatment if you have reason to believe that you have been exposed to rabies.

    What is it?

  • Rabies is a rare viral infection of the brain that follows a bite, scratch, or, less commonly, a lick from an infected animal.
  • Rabies is fatal if not treated, but can be prevented by prompt immunization after exposure.

    • Where is it?

    Where Rabies can be found
    Rabies is found on all continents, except Antarctica.

    Prevention Tips

  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times and stay alert.
  • Remember, not all rabid animals behave ferociously - some become docile.
  • Animals which may carry rabies can include dogs, cats, foxes, skunks, raccoons, bats and cattle.
  • Avoid contact with wild animals and stray domestic animals, particularly dogs and cats while visiting areas of increased rabies risk.
  • If you are bitten or scratched by any animal that might have rabies, wash the wound immediately for several minutes with lots of soap and clean water. You must see a doctor immediately for treatment, even if you have been vaccinated.
  • A vaccine called Imovax® if given now - before any potential contact with an infected animal may save your life.
  • In addition, pre-exposure vaccination with Imovax® will reduce the number of injections you require if you are exposed to rabies during your trip.

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