Rabies Vaccine (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)

Rabies is a deadly viral infection transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, particularly dogs, bats, and raccoons. Once symptoms appear, rabies is nearly 100% fatal. While rabies is rare in Canada, it remains a serious risk in many developing countries. Travellers planning adventure activities (hiking, camping, caving) in remote areas of Asia, Africa, and Latin America — where medical care and post-exposure prophylaxis may not be readily available — should consider pre-exposure rabies vaccination. Animal workers, veterinarians, and laboratory personnel handling animal specimens should also be vaccinated.

Pre-exposure rabies prophylaxis (PrEP) consists of three doses of rabies vaccine: days 0, 7, and 21–28. This series stimulates your immune system to begin producing protective antibodies before exposure. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal after pre-exposure vaccination, you will require fewer post-exposure doses and may not require rabies immunoglobulin (RIG), which can be difficult to obtain in resource-limited settings. The vaccine is safe and well-tolerated, with minimal side effects.

If you are planning adventure travel or work with animals in high-risk countries, pre-exposure rabies vaccination is an important safeguard. Call Peel Travel Clinic at (905) 890-2757, located at 550 Matheson Blvd W, Unit 107, Mississauga, to discuss whether this vaccine is right for you.