Rabies Vaccination Oxford
Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the nervous system and is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected animals, such as dogs, bats, or raccoons. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent rabies, and it is recommended for individuals at high risk of exposure or those traveling to areas where rabies is prevalent.
Rabies Vaccination pricing & Dose Schedule
* Once the full vaccination schedule is completed, you will develop a certain level of immunity; however, it is important to note that the vaccine achieves its maximum effectiveness when given sufficient time to activate in the body.
OXFORD'S PREMIER TRAVEL VACCINATION CLINIC
Book your Rabies Vaccine today
Book an appointment online at your convenience using our calendar below. Alternatively call in store and our healthcare professionals will guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rabies?
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and is transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. It is a highly fatal disease that affects mammals, including humans, and can cause neurological symptoms such as fever, agitation, confusion, and paralysis. Immediate medical attention, including post-exposure prophylaxis, is crucial to prevent the progression of rabies once symptoms appear.
How can you contract Rabies?
Rabies is typically contracted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. The virus is present in the saliva of infected animals, and it can enter the body through broken skin or mucous membranes. Common sources of rabies transmission include bites from infected dogs, cats, bats, raccoons, and other wild animals. It's important to note that the virus cannot be transmitted through casual contact, such as touching or petting an infected animal.
Symptoms of Rabies
The symptoms of rabies can vary, but they typically progress in stages. The initial stage may include flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and fatigue. As the infection progresses, more specific symptoms may develop, including anxiety, agitation, hallucinations, difficulty swallowing, excessive salivation, and muscle spasms. In later stages, individuals may experience paralysis, respiratory failure, and coma. It's important to note that once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal, which is why immediate medical attention is crucial if there has been a potential exposure to the virus.
How is Rabies treated?
Rabies is a viral infection that affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms develop. There is no cure for rabies, but prompt medical treatment can help prevent the onset of symptoms and the progression of the disease. The primary treatment for rabies exposure involves a series of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) shots, which includes a dose of rabies immune globulin (RIG) and a series of rabies vaccine injections. These shots help to stimulate the immune system and provide antibodies to fight the virus. Additionally, wound care and cleaning may be necessary to remove the virus from the site of the exposure. It is crucial to seek medical attention immediately if there has been a potential exposure to rabies, as early intervention is essential in preventing the onset of symptoms and increasing the chances of survival.
How to prevent Rabies?
To prevent rabies, it is important to take the following precautions:
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Vaccination: Ensure that your pets, such as dogs and cats, are vaccinated against rabies as per the recommended schedule. This not only protects them but also reduces the risk of transmission to humans.
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Avoid contact with wild animals: Do not approach or handle wild animals, including stray dogs or cats. Teach children to stay away from unfamiliar animals and not to provoke or play with them.
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Animal control: Report stray or aggressive animals to local authorities for proper handling and potential rabies testing.
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Prevention during travel: If you are traveling to areas where rabies is prevalent, especially in developing countries, avoid contact with animals, particularly dogs and monkeys. Consider pre-exposure vaccination if you will be engaged in activities with a higher risk of exposure, such as working with animals or conducting research.
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Post-exposure prophylaxis: If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention promptly. Post-exposure prophylaxis, including administration of the rabies vaccine and rabies immune globulin, may be necessary.
Remember, prevention is crucial as rabies is a life-threatening disease. By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of contracting rabies.
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