What is the Rabies Vaccine?
The rabies vaccine is used to protect you from getting sick if you’ve been bitten or scratched by a possibly rabid animal—or even before that happens, as a preventive step.
There are two types of rabies vaccination:
1. Pre-exposure vaccine (before you get bitten)
Recommended for:
- Travelers to high-risk areas
- People who work with animals (vets, animal shelter workers, etc.)
- Children who play outdoors often
You usually need 3 shots over 3–4 weeks.
2. Post-exposure vaccine (after you get bitten)
If you’re bitten or scratched by a possibly rabid animal, you need a quick response:
- Wash the wound immediately with soap and water.
- Go to a clinic or hospital for rabies treatment.
You’ll be given 4 or 5 doses of the rabies vaccine over several days.
What is Anti-Rabies Serum?
Anti-Rabies Serum (Rabies Immunoglobulin) is a special medicine that gives your body instant protection while the rabies vaccine builds long-term immunity.
It is only given after a bite, and only for people who have never had the vaccine before. It works like a temporary shield, directly attacking the virus near the bite area.
Not everyone needs the serum—doctors decide based on the wound and the animal’s condition.
What to Do If You're Bitten or Scratched
- Wash the wound right away with lots of soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.
- Apply antiseptic, like iodine or alcohol, if available.
- Go to the nearest clinic or hospital—don’t wait!
- Follow the doctor’s advice about the rabies vaccine and possibly the anti-rabies serum.
Final Tips
- There’s no cure for rabies once symptoms appear, so prevention is key.
- Rabies vaccines are safe and effective.
- Don’t pet stray animals, no matter how cute they look.
- Always act quickly after a bite or scratch.
Getting vaccinated is not merely a personal decision—it’s a duty we all share to protect the community.
