NHS Service

Is Rabies a Disease You Should Be Worried About?

Rabies Symptoms

Rabies is no longer as widespread as it once was, but cases do still occur in the UK and abroad. It can be found in every continent and in over 150 countries. Rabies is a serious viral infection that almost always ends in death if it isn’t treated right away. It’s spread through the bite of infected animals, usually from wild animal bites. Regions with a high risk of rabies are mostly in Africa, Asia, and South America, but it can be found in other countries as well including the UK. If you’re going to be travelling or working in an area where rabies is a risk, you should protect yourself with the effective rabies vaccination. Quick, safe, and easy, you can get the rabies vaccination in Bromley and Ramsgate from Touchwood Pharmacy’s travel clinics.

Rabies Symptoms

If you’re bitten by an animal or think you’ve been bitten and don’t get post-exposure treatment right away, you’ll soon exhibit the signs and symptoms of rabies. Once the symptoms start, the disease always turns fatal. At first you may feel like you have the flu, but eventually more serious and fatal symptoms will start.

Symptoms of Rabies:

  • Fever
  • Confusion
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Headache
  • Agitation
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Anxiety
  • Excessive salivating
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Hallucinations
  • Paralysis
Rabies Vaccination in Northampton and Streatham

The rabies vaccine is very effective at protecting against the rabies virus. Once administered, you will be protected for up to 10 years. Post-exposure treatment doesn’t always work and may not be available in the regions you’ll be travelling in so the best way to stay safe is with the rabies vaccination.

The vaccine is given over three doses and you should aim to get the first one at least 28 days before your trip. The second dose is given 7 days later and the third is given on the 28th. In a pinch, you may be able to get the 3rd dose on the 21st day.

If you’re unsure if you have enough time, contact us to discuss your options. Our comprehensive travel clinics can provide advice as well as travel vaccines.

Book online at Touchwood Pharmacy for rabies vaccination in Camberley, Hanwell, Northolt, and Walsall.