Rabies vaccine

The rabies vaccine is a vaccine used to prevent rabies.^[11] There are several rabies vaccines available that are both safe and effective.^[11] Vaccinations must be administered prior to rabies virus exposure or within the latent period after exposure to prevent the disease.^[12] Transmission of rabies virus to humans typically occurs through a bite or scratch from an infectious animal, but exposure can occur through indirect contact with the saliva from an infectious individual.^[12]

Doses are usually given by injection into the skin or muscle.^[11] After exposure, the vaccination is typically used along with rabies immunoglobulin.^[11] It is recommended that those who are at high risk of exposure be vaccinated before potential exposure.^[11] Rabies vaccines are effective in humans and other animals, and vaccinating dogs is very effective in preventing the spread of rabies to humans.^[11] A long-lasting immunity to the virus develops after a full course of treatment.^[11]

Rabies vaccines may be used safely by all age groups.^[11] About 35 to 45 percent of people develop a brief period of redness and pain at the injection site, and 5 to 15 percent of people may experience fever, headaches, or nausea.^[11] After exposure to rabies, there is no contraindication to its use, because the untreated virus is virtually 100% fatal.^[11][13]

The first rabies vaccine was introduced in 1885 and was followed by an improved version in 1908.^[14] Over 29 million people worldwide receive human rabies vaccine annually.^[15] It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.^[16][17]