Health Hub topic
Rabies
The rabies vaccine course and its timing, what to do after a bite abroad, the UK shortage, and the countries where it matters most.
The series, in order
- How many doses of the rabies vaccine do you need? Three doses, usually over 28 days, or over 7 days if you're short of time. Why a two-dose course counts as only partial protection in the UK, and how to fit the course around your flight. From Miles Pharmacy, Epsom.
- Is 7 days too late for the rabies vaccine after a bite? No. UK guidance sets no time limit for rabies treatment after a bite, scratch or lick, but sooner is always better. What to do abroad, what to do once you're home, and what treatment involves. From Miles Pharmacy, Epsom.
- Can you still get rabies if you’re vaccinated? The rabies vaccine doesn't replace treatment after a bite, but it changes it: two doses instead of four, and usually no immunoglobulin. What UK guidance says, and what counts as fully vaccinated. From Miles Pharmacy, Epsom.
- Rabies vaccine shortage in the UK: what it means for your trip Rabies vaccine supplies were limited across the UK in 2026. What's happened, who gets priority when stock is short, why two doses aren't a shortcut, and where you can still get a full course. From Miles Pharmacy, Epsom.
- Rabies in Morocco, Turkey and Egypt: what holidaymakers should know UKHSA rates Morocco, Turkey and Egypt as high risk for rabies, and two UK deaths since 2018 followed contact with animals in Morocco. What the guidance says, how to stay safe around animals, and who it recommends the vaccine for. From Miles Pharmacy, Epsom.
- The Rabies Vaccine: Why It’s Important for Humans and Animals We all want to protect ourselves and our beloved animals from rabies.
- What is the Duration of Rabies Vaccine for Humans? When it comes to taking care of our health, one important thing that people often don't think about enough is getting the rabies vaccine. As we deal with various health risks, it's crucial to understand how long the rabies vaccine protects us.