A rabies vaccination may be worth considering for travellers going to areas where rabies occurs, particularly when their activities or travel conditions could increase their exposure risk.
According to current UK guidance, pre-travel vaccination may be considered for people who:
- Work with animals
- Take part in activities that could bring them into contact with animals
- Travel to remote areas where post-exposure treatment may be difficult to access
- Stay for longer periods in areas where rabies is present
- Travel somewhere where rabies treatment may be limited or unavailable
For example, people planning cycling, running, trekking or other outdoor activities may have more opportunities for animal contact.
The decision should be based on your destination and individual travel plans. A travel clinic or pharmacy providing travel-health services can help you assess whether Rabies Vaccine UK vaccination is appropriate.
Pre-exposure vaccination does not mean you can ignore an animal bite or scratch. Medical advice is still required after a potential exposure.