Rabies

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Vaccines are the best way to protect against some very serious infections.

The rabies vaccine protects people after they have been bitten, licked or scratched by an animal with rabies.

What is Rabies?

Rabies is a very serious disease. It can kill a person who is not treated after contact with an animal that has rabies. Early symptoms may include numbness around the bite, fever, headache, and general malaise. Later symptoms of the disease may include muscle spasms, breathing problems, fear of water and seizures. These signs may not show up for two to eight weeks after the person has been exposed. Once symptoms develop, rabies is a fatal disease.

Who should get the vaccine?

Anyone who has been bitten, scratched or had saliva contact to an open wound or sore by an animal, or has been exposed to a bat should get this vaccine.

How well does the vaccine work?

The vaccine will protect you if you follow the recommended schedule of 5 doses over 28 days.

Who should not get this vaccine?

If there is a risk of getting rabies, the vaccine should be given.

What are the side effects of this vaccine?

Some people have mild pain, swelling, redness or itching for a few days where the needle was given. A few people may have headaches, loss of appetite, stomach pain, muscle aches or dizziness. Serious side effects are rare. This is not a complete list of side effects. You should always discuss the risks and benefits of any vaccine with a health care provider.

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be taken following immunization to reduce discomfort or fever. Always follow package directions.  Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA or Aspirin®) must not be given to children under 18 years of age.

Is there an alternative to the vaccine?

There are no other treatments to prevent this disease.

It is important to immediately wash and flush the affected area with soap and water after exposure to a possibly infected animal.

Tetanus vaccine should also be given if a tetanus booster has not been given in the last 10 years.

When should I seek medical attention?

Call your health care provider, go to the nearest hospital or call 911 if any of the following occur within three days of getting the vaccine:

• High fever (over 40C or 104F)
• Hives
• Swelling of the face or mouth
• Trouble breathing
• Very pale colour and serious drowsiness
• Convulsions or seizures
• Any other unexpected effects

If medical attention was required, please notify the health unit.

What else do I need to know?

After you or your child receive a vaccine, make sure that you update the immunization record (Yellow Card). Keep it in a safe place.