Rabies Vaccine
Rabies is nearly 100% fatal once symptoms develop but 100% preventable with timely vaccination. Pre-travel pre-exposure vaccination is strongly recommended for extended travel in rabies-endemic regions.
What it protects against
Rabies virus, transmitted through bites, scratches, or saliva from infected mammals (dogs, bats, monkeys, raccoons).
Who should get it
- •Long-stay travellers in rabies-endemic countries (>1 month)
- •Adventure travellers, cyclists, hikers, motorcyclists
- •Travellers to remote areas with limited access to post-exposure treatment
- •People working with animals abroad
Not recommended for
- •Severe allergy to vaccine component (rare)
Destinations where Rabies is recommended
Side effects & safety
- Injection-site soreness
- Mild flu-like symptoms rare
- Very safe
Key facts
- 1Even vaccinated travellers still need 2 boosters after any animal exposure
- 2Unvaccinated travellers need rabies immunoglobulin (often unavailable abroad) PLUS 4 vaccine doses
- 3Never approach stray dogs, monkeys, or bats
Need the rabies for your trip?
Book a virtual consultation with a licensed Canadian physician. We'll review your itinerary, issue the prescription, and administer the vaccine at our Toronto pharmacy.
Book your consultationFrequently asked: Rabies Vaccine
Is pre-exposure rabies vaccination worth it?
For long-stay travellers, adventurers, and anyone going to rural India or Southeast Asia, yes. It dramatically simplifies what you need after an exposure and buys you critical time in regions where immunoglobulin may be unavailable.
Explore other travel vaccines
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Recommendations vary based on your health history, destination, and planned activities. A consultation with our licensed physician is required before any prescription or vaccine is issued.