WHO SHOULD GET RABIES VACCINE?
People are offered rabies vaccine before they are exposed to the disease (pre-exposure) if it is likely that they will be exposed to rabies virus through the course of their work or travel activities. It is also given to people when they are known or suspected to have been exposed (post-exposure) to rabies virus. VACCINATION SCHEDULE: The schedule for vaccination depends upon whether the person is getting the vaccine pre- or post-exposure. Vaccine is given by intramuscular route in the upper arm for both pre- and post-exposure. Booster doses are indicated when there is frequent or continuous risk of exposure to rabies virus and blood testing indicates no or low levels of immunity against rabies. Pre-exposure: The schedule consists of three doses. The second dose is given 7 days after the first vaccination; the third dose is given 21 or 28 days after the first vaccination. Post-exposure: Someone who is exposed and who has never been vaccinated against rabies, should receive 5 doses of r
