Rabies ID

How Do You Treat Rabies

Rabies infection is fatal. There is no treatment once infected but pre-exposure Rabies vaccination by ID or IM route can offer almost 100% protection if the wound is cleaned thoroughly and post exposure treatment of two further vaccines are received.

Treatment for travellers who have not received three pre exposure rabies vaccines require thorough wound irrigation, human rabies immune globulin (HRIG), and a series of 4 doses of rabies vaccine over the course of 21 days on set days. Sourcing this treatment can seriously disrupt travel plans and also create a lot of anxiety and stress.

Many travellers do not consider or question the quality and lack of healthcare facilities abroad. They are also unaware of the risks of counterfeit Rabies vaccines and the fact that HRIG is often unavailable in developing countries. Getting vaccinated before you travel gives you a bit more time a flexibility when it comes to seeking out further post-exposure doses when travelling and is your best prevention against rabies.

What is the Intradermal (ID) Rabies Vaccine

Intradermal (ID) Rabies vaccinations offer a more affordable alternative for travellers. Only a very small amount of the vaccine is needed so it costs a lot less to administer. The ID rabies method is globally recognised and used regularly in many countries, but there are only a few travel health clinics in the UK offering this service.

Rabies IM vs ID: Whats the Difference?

Unlike most vaccines given intramuscularly (into the muscle), intradermal rabies vaccine is given under the first layer of skin, which is another effective method of administration.

Who can have the ID Rabies Vaccine

Travellers backpacking, visiting rural areas and undertaking activities such as cycling, running, hiking and camping are at risk of coming into contact with stray animals, particularly dogs and should seriously consider rabies pre exposure vaccinations by ID or IM route. Your Nomad travel nurse will discuss which vaccine is best for you based on your medical history and travel itinerary.

How Many Doses of ID Rabies Vaccine Do You Need

The World Health Organisation states that three doses of ID rabies vaccines will provide antibody levels that achieve adequate protection again the rabies virus. Three doses, given on day 0, 7 and 21, are required before travel.

How Can I Get the ID Rabies Vaccine

At Nomad, our travel clinics offer travellers the choice of Intramuscular (IM) or Intradermal (ID) Rabies vaccines. Our nurses are specialised in administering the ID technique. The IM and ID methods are interchangeable without any adverse effects, so you can finish a course of ID rabies vaccines at Nomad even if you’ve already had 1/2 doses of IM rabies.

Due to the small demand, the ID method of ID rabies is off label in the UK but this does not mean that is it not safe. The vaccine is licensed and the route of administration is safe and effective if given correctly by trained healthcare professionals.

For more information from the WHO – Click Here

Rabies Intramuscular (IM) is £72 per dose.
Your Travel Nurse may recommend Rabies IM based on your specific travel itinerary, medical history and other risk factors.

Rabies Intradermal (ID) is available at all Nomad Travel clinics and is £55 per dose – call the booking team on tel:0808 506 1587