Rabies Vaccine
Rabies Vaccine at Our Pharmacy
The rabies vaccine offers protection against rabies, a rare but extremely serious infection. It is recommended for those at higher risk due to travel or work.
If you are planning travel or work that may put you at risk, book your rabies vaccination with our pharmacist. Our pharmacy team can advise you on the best vaccination schedule and answer any questions you may have.
Book your appointment now to stay protected against rabies.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Rabies Vaccine For?
The rabies vaccine helps reduce your risk of catching rabies. Rabies is:
- A rare but life-threatening infection that affects the brain and nerves
- Almost always fatal once symptoms develop
- Most commonly contracted from the bite or scratch of an infected animal, especially dogs
- Present throughout the world, particularly in Asia, Africa, and Central and South America (in the UK, rabies is found only in a small number of wild bats)
The vaccine is used to prevent rabies and may also help stop symptoms developing if you have been exposed to the virus.
Who Should Have the Rabies Vaccine?
The rabies vaccine is not part of the routine NHS vaccination schedule.
It is recommended for:
- People travelling to areas where rabies is common
- Individuals whose work puts them at risk of exposure
Who Should Not Have the Rabies Vaccine?
Most people who need the rabies vaccine can have it, including babies, children, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
You should not have the vaccine if you have previously had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose or to any ingredient in the vaccine. Rabies vaccines may contain egg protein or small amounts of antibiotics such as polymyxin B, streptomycin, or neomycin. Please inform our pharmacist if you have a severe allergy to eggs or any of these antibiotics.Title here / title here:
How is the Rabies Vaccine Given?
The vaccine is given as an injection, usually as a course of three doses over 28 days. If time is short, the three doses may be given over 21 days, or sometimes over 7 days.
Booster Doses
Most travellers do not require a booster dose. However, a one-off booster may be advised if you are travelling to a high-risk area and it has been more than a year since your initial vaccination. People at ongoing risk through their work may need a booster after one year, followed by regular boosters every few years.
How Well Does the Rabies Vaccine Work and How Long Does It Last?
Around 95% of people who receive all three doses will develop some protection against rabies. Protection usually lasts at least one to two years, but those at continued risk may need booster doses to stay protected.
Side Effects of the Rabies Vaccine
Most side effects are mild and short-lived. They may include:
- Swelling or pain at the injection site
- Headache
- High temperature
- Feeling or being sick
- Raised, itchy rash (hives)
Serious side effects, such as a severe allergic reaction, are very rare. The rabies vaccine used in the UK contains a killed version of the virus, so there is no risk of contracting rabies from the vaccine itself.
Prices
| Service | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | 2 doses • Lasts 20+ years | Junior: £65 Adult: £65 |
| Hepatitis B | 3 doses • Check immunity in 5 years | Junior: £38 Adult: £60 |
| Hepatitis A + B (Combined) | 3 doses • Check Hep B immunity in 5 years | Junior: £70 Adult: £85 |
| Hepatitis A + Typhoid | Typhoid: 3 yrs • Hep A booster at 6–12 months | £99 per dose |
| Typhoid | Lasts 3 years | Injection: £40 Oral: £40 |
| Malaria – Atovaquone/Proguanil | Daily from 2 days before to 7 days after return | Adult: £2.50 per tablet |
| Malaria – Malarone Paediatric | Same schedule as above | Junior: £2.00 per tablet |
| Malaria – Malarone Adult | Same schedule as above | Adult: £4.00 per tablet |
| Malaria – Doxycycline | Start 1–2 days before and 4 weeks after return | £0.70 per capsule |
| Malaria – Chloroquine | Weekly from 1 week before to 4 weeks after | £0.80 per tablet |
| Malaria – Mefloquine | Weekly from 2–3 weeks before to 4 weeks after | £5.00 per tablet |
| Cholera | 2-dose pack | £67.00 |
| Rabies (Per Dose) | Standard single dose | £99.00 |
| Rabies (Full Course) | 3 doses • Booster after 2–3 yrs if needed | £297.00 |
| Meningitis ACWY | Lasts 5 years | £65 |
| Tick-Borne Encephalitis | 3 doses • Booster every 3–5 years | Adult: £75 Child: £75 |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Standard course | £95.00 |
| Diphtheria, Tetanus & Polio Booster | Lasts 10 years | £43.00 |
Book an Appointment
Book your appointment now for expert travel health advice and to stay protected against Rabies.
