Our pets, such as dogs and cats, and animals on the street, are very close to us. But sometimes we can get bitten by these animals in unexpected ways. When that happens, the biggest fear that comes to our mind is 'Rabies'. This is a very dangerous and deadly disease. So today we are going to talk about some things you need to know about the Rabies Vaccine, which protects us from this dangerous disease.
Simply put, what is this rabies vaccine?
Simply put, rabies is a serious viral disease that spreads between animals. If a rabid animal bites or scratches you, the virus enters your body through the animal's saliva. The vaccine that protects against this is called the Rabies Vaccine.
This vaccine is given mainly on two occasions:
1. Pre-exposure: This vaccine is given to people who are at high risk of contracting rabies. For example, veterinarians, animal handlers, and wildlife officers are given this vaccine as a pre-exposure protection.
2. Post-exposure: This is the most common scenario. This means that after someone is bitten by an animal that is at risk of rabies, this vaccine is given to prevent the disease from spreading through the body.
Things you need to tell your doctor before getting vaccinated
Before giving you this vaccine, your doctor will want to know about your health condition. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to inform your doctor about them.
| Health condition or habit | What you need to inform |
|---|---|
| Allergies | If you have allergies to previous vaccines, eggs, albumin, neomycin, other medications, foods, or preservatives. |
| Immune system problems | If you have HIV or AIDS, cancer, or another disease that weakens your immune system. |
| Treatment | If you are receiving treatment such as radiation therapy. |
| Blood diseases | If you have a bleeding disorder or a low level of blood cells such as white blood cells and platelets. |
| Medications taken | If you are taking medication that prevents blood clotting. |
| Pregnancy | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
How is this vaccine given?
This vaccine is given as an injection into a muscle. It is given by a trained health professional, such as a doctor or nurse. You cannot take it home and get it.
Usually, before you get vaccinated, you will be given a leaflet (Vaccine Information Statement) to read. Always read and understand the information in it carefully.
Is this vaccine given to young children?
Yes. Even small children and babies can be given this vaccine if needed. However, there are some things to be careful about when giving this to children. Therefore, before giving this vaccine to your child, be sure to talk to your pediatrician .
This vaccine has been prescribed for you only. Never share it with anyone else. As it is given by a medical professional, the chance of getting an overdose is very low. However, if you suspect that something has happened, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What to do if you miss a vaccination?
This is very important. Rabies vaccines usually consist of several doses. This means that they have to be given several times on specific dates. To be fully protected, it is extremely important to receive all the doses of the vaccine on the scheduled dates .
If you miss your scheduled appointment, don't skip it. Call your doctor or clinic right away to reschedule . Missing even one dose may reduce your protection.
Other things that may interact with this vaccine
Some medications you are taking may affect the effectiveness of this vaccine. Therefore, if you are using any of the following, tell your doctor about them as well.
- Medicine for malaria
- Medicines for cancer
- Medications given to control the immune system after an organ transplant
- Some medications for arthritis (joint inflammation)
- Other types of vaccines
- Steroid-type medications (e.g. prednisone, cortisone)
- Drugs such as etanercept and infliximab
- Immune globulins
This list may not be comprehensive. So tell your doctor about all the medications, herbal remedies (like herbal teas), and vitamins you are taking. Don't forget to tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Possible side effects of this vaccine
Like any vaccine, this one can cause minor side effects, but there are some things we need to be especially careful about.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Severe allergies | Skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Nervous system problems | Vision changes, neck stiffness and sensitivity to light, pain, numbness or loss of sensation in the limbs. |
| Other serious symptoms | Joint pain with fever, unusual tiredness or weakness. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| At the injection site | Pain, redness, itching, or slight swelling. (This is normal) |
| In the normal body | Headache, dizziness, muscle pain, stomach pain, general fatigue. |
Remember, like all vaccines, this vaccine may not provide 100% protection for everyone. However, getting all the required doses will ensure maximum protection.
Take-Home Message
- Rabies vaccine is the best way to protect against the deadly disease rabies that can be caused by animal bites.
- This vaccine is given to people who are at high risk of disease, as well as those who are bitten by an animal.
- Before getting vaccinated, it is imperative that you tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, medications you are taking, and allergies.
- For complete protection, it is extremely important to receive all vaccine doses on schedule. Do not skip any.
- If you experience any severe side effects such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing, seek medical advice immediately.
- If you have any questions, fears, or doubts about this, talk to your doctor openly about it.
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