Rabies

Rabies is a deadly viral disease that can be transmitted through animal bites. Our essential guide will help you stay informed, take the right precautions, and travel safely.

Rabies Vaccine – Essential Protection for Travellers

Rabies is a fatal viral infection that affects the nervous system and is transmitted through bites, scratches, or saliva from infected animals. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal, making vaccination the only effective way to protect yourself if you are travelling to high-risk areas.

At Glamorgan Travel Clinic, near Cardiff in South Wales, we provide the Rabies vaccine and expert travel health advice to ensure you stay safe on your journey.

Why is the Rabies Vaccine Important?

Rabies is found in more than 150 countries worldwide, with the highest risk in areas where stray animals are common. The virus spreads through bites or scratches from infected animals, including:

Dogs (the most common source of transmission).
Bats.
Monkeys.
Cats and other wild or stray animals.

There is no cure for rabies once symptoms develop, making pre-exposure vaccination vital for travellers at risk.

How the Rabies Vaccine Works

The Rabies vaccine prepares the immune system to recognise and fight the virus if exposure occurs.

Vaccine Schedule: The pre-exposure vaccination consists of three doses given over 21–28 days.
Post-Exposure Benefits: If you are bitten or scratched and have already been vaccinated, you will require fewer post-exposure treatment doses.
Booster Doses: Recommended every 2–5 years for those at continued risk.

If you require last-minute protection, an accelerated vaccination schedule may be available.

Who Should Get the Rabies Vaccine?

The Rabies vaccine is strongly recommended for travellers visiting regions where rabies is common, particularly for those who may have close contact with animals.

High-Risk Destinations:

Asia – Including India, Thailand, Vietnam, China, and Indonesia.
Africa – Countries such as Kenya, South Africa, and Ethiopia.
South America – Including Brazil, Peru, and Bolivia.
Eastern Europe & the Middle East – Areas with a known rabies risk.

Other At-Risk Groups:

Backpackers & Adventure Travellers – Those spending extended time outdoors.
Wildlife Workers & Conservationists – Frequent contact with animals.
Veterinarians & Animal Handlers – Increased exposure to rabid animals.
Cyclists, Runners & Outdoor Enthusiasts – Higher likelihood of unexpected encounters with animals.
Travellers Visiting Remote Areas – Where medical access may be limited in case of a bite.

If you’re unsure whether you need the Rabies vaccine, Glamorgan Travel Clinic can assess your risk based on your travel plans.

Common Side Effects of the Rabies Vaccine

The Rabies vaccine is well tolerated, with mild side effects that may include:

Soreness or redness at the injection site.
Mild fever or fatigue.
Headache or muscle aches.

Serious reactions are very rare. Our healthcare team will discuss any concerns before vaccination.

Why Choose Glamorgan Travel Clinic?

At Glamorgan Travel Clinic, we provide professional and reliable travel vaccination services to protect you before you go abroad. We offer:

Expert Travel Health Advice – Personalised recommendations tailored to your trip.
Flexible Appointment Availability – Including last-minute bookings for urgent travel plans.
Convenient Location – Easily accessible in South Wales, near Cardiff.
Comprehensive Travel Vaccinations – A full range of immunisations for travel health.

When Should You Get the Rabies Vaccine?

We recommend getting the Rabies vaccine at least one month before travel to allow time for all doses. If you need urgent protection, contact us about accelerated vaccination schedules.

Book your appointment online to ensure you’re fully protected before your trip.

Additional Travel Health Tips for Rabies Prevention

While vaccination offers crucial protection, follow these precautions to reduce your risk:

Avoid contact with stray or wild animals – Even if they appear friendly.
Do not feed or pet animals abroad – Especially in high-risk areas.
Seek immediate medical attention if bitten or scratched – Even if you are vaccinated.
Wash any wounds with soap and water for at least 15 minutes – This can reduce the risk of infection.

Useful Resources for Travellers

For more information on Rabies and travel health, visit:

NHS Fit for Travel – Up-to-date vaccine and disease prevention advice.
World Health Organization (WHO) – Global guidelines on rabies prevention.
TravelHealthPro – Country-specific rabies risk assessments and vaccine recommendations.

Stay Safe & Travel Smart with Glamorgan Travel Clinic

The Rabies vaccine provides lifesaving protection for travellers at risk of exposure. Glamorgan Travel Clinic ensures you receive expert care and vaccinations so you can travel with confidence.

Plan ahead—book your Rabies vaccination today and enjoy peace of mind wherever your journey takes you.