Rabies, also known as lyssavirus, is a disease caused by a virus. It affects the spinal cord, brain, and nervous system in mammals. Most rabid animals will behave abnormally because the disease affects the central nervous system. An animal with rabies may snap or bite at real or imaginary objects, drool excessively, appear agitated, or seem disoriented.

Rabies may cause death or brain deterioration to a person, but the disease is preventable through vaccination.

Warnings

Both children and adults can use the rabies vaccine. However, you should not take a booster vaccine if you had a severe allergic reaction after your first shot. If you are taking this shot at any travel clinic, it is recommended to inform your doctor if you have:

· An allergic reaction to neomycin.

· A weak immune system or

· Any infection or severe illness.

Researchers are yet to discover if the vaccine can cause severe side effects on pregnant or breastfeeding women. Therefore, if you are at a higher risk of rabies during pregnancy or breastfeeding your baby, consult with your doctor to determine if you should get the vaccine.

How Are Rabies Injections Administered?

The vaccine is administered into the muscle of your upper arm.

For the pre-exposure vaccine, you need three shots on days 0, 7, and 28. If you are at risk of being bitten, you need a booster dose one year after finishing this course, then a further dose after every 3 to 5 years.

For the post-exposure vaccine, you will need five injections. The first shot is administered as soon as possible; then, the rest are given on days 3, 7, 14, and 30.

Common Side Effects for Rabies Vaccine

· Pain, itching, redness, or swelling where the shot was given.

· Muscle pain

· Headache

· Dizziness

· Shivering

Get medical help if you experience severe symptoms such as high fever, weakness, or general ill feeling.

Before receiving this vaccine,inform your doctor if you are receiving any of the following treatments:

· Medication to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and other autoimmune disorders.

· Inhaled, nasal, injectable, or oral steroid medicine.

· Radiation or chemotherapy treatments

· Medications that prevent or treat organ transplant rejection.

· Medicines that prevent or treat malaria.