Rabies vaccination for travel
Rabies is a deadly virus usually transmitted through the saliva of infected 'rabid' animals. It is incredibly important to make sure you're properly vaccinated against beforehand, or you are treated with the vaccination, before symptoms start to appear. If left untreated, the virus will cause inflammation in the brain along with a host of other health problems.
What is the rabies vaccination?
The rabies vaccination is the best way to prevent, and in certain cases, treat the virus. If you plan on travelling to an area where rabies is common, or where there has been an outbreak, it is best to get this vaccination beforehand.
How long before travel should you have a rabies vaccination?
You should get your first rabies vaccination no later than one month before you travel, though you should plan ahead so that you have at least five weeks between your first vaccination dose and your flight. It is wise also to get travel insurance that will cover your trip to areas where rabies is common. There are three doses of this vaccination, given over a period of 28 days. You should ideally wait a week before your last dose before you travel to be fully covered.
What side effects can you expect after your vaccination?
It is not uncommon to experience temporary swelling on the injection site for about 24-48 hours. The area may also seem slightly sore after your vaccination which is nothing to worry about.
However, in a few rare cases, some may also experience the following side effects:
- a mild high temperature (fever)
- a rash
- muscle pain
- vomiting
How much does a rabies vaccination cost?
The rabies vaccination is given in three doses, each dose costing between £40 to £60 per dose.
What to do if you think you've been exposed to rabies
If you think you have been exposed to rabies, you need to wash the wound immediately and seek emergency medical help. You will be treated with the vaccination, with your treatment involving several doses of the vaccine over several days or weeks.
Holiday Extras Travel Insurance is sold and administered by Holiday Extras Cover Limited who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under registration number 828848.
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Holiday Extras Travel Insurance is provided by Taurus Insurance Services, an insurance intermediary licenced and authorised in Gibraltar by the Financial Services Commission under Permission Number 5566 and authorised to passport general insurance intermediary services into the UK and registered with the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK under registration number 444830.
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