Rabies Vaccination

What Is Rabies?

Rabies is a fatal viral infection that affects the brain and nervous system. It is transmitted through the bite, scratch, or saliva of an infected animal, most commonly dogs, bats, monkeys, and other mammals. Rabies is found worldwide but is especially common in parts of Asia, Africa, Central and South America.

Early symptoms of rabies may be mild and non-specific, including:

• Fever
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Tingling or pain at the site of the bite

As the disease progresses, symptoms can become severe and include:

• Anxiety or confusion
• Difficulty swallowing
• Excessive salivation
• Paralysis
• Seizures

Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal. However, rabies is completely preventable with prompt medical care and vaccination.

The rabies pre-exposure vaccine is recommended for travellers who may be at higher risk, including those spending extended time abroad, visiting rural areas, working with animals, or travelling to regions where access to medical care may be limited. The vaccine is given as a three-dose series and is typically special order, so advance planning is important.

If you are travelling to an area with a risk of rabies, the best way to protect yourself is by getting a rabies vaccination at Destinations travel and Immunization Clinic in Orléans, Ottawa.

The Government of Canada’s Rabies Page

Is Rabies Vaccination Required?

Rabies vaccination is not usually required for entry into most countries. However, it is strongly recommended for certain travelers based on destination, duration of travel, and planned activities.

Rabies is present in many parts of the world, particularly in Africa, Asia, Central and South America, where rabies in dogs and wildlife remains common. Travelers at higher risk include those spending extended time abroad, visiting rural or remote areas, working with animals, or participating in outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, or caving.

Pre-exposure rabies vaccination does not eliminate the need for medical care after a potential exposure, but it can simplify treatment and improve protection if an exposure occurs.

Travelers should consult a healthcare provider or travel clinic well before departure to assess their individual risk and vaccination needs.

How Can I Protect Myself Against Rabies?

Vaccination is an important preventive measure for travelers at increased risk of rabies exposure.

Additional precautions include:

• Avoiding contact with animals, especially dogs, monkeys, bats, and other wildlife
• Not feeding or handling animals, even if they appear healthy
• Teaching children to avoid animals and report any bites or scratches immediately

If you are bitten, scratched, or licked on broken skin by an animal while traveling, seek medical care immediately, even if you have been vaccinated. Prompt post-exposure treatment is critical.

A healthcare provider or travel clinic can advise on whether pre-exposure rabies vaccination is recommended and provide guidance on what to do in case of an animal exposure.

Can Rabies Result in Serious Illness?

Yes, rabies is a nearly always fatal disease once symptoms develop.

Early symptoms may include fever, headache, fatigue, and discomfort at the bite site, followed by neurological symptoms such as anxiety, confusion, difficulty swallowing, paralysis, and seizures.

Once clinical symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal despite medical care. However, rabies is entirely preventable with timely vaccination and proper medical treatment after exposure.

Because of its severity, prevention, education, and immediate medical attention after any potential exposure are essential for travelers to regions where rabies is present.