Rabies Vaccine – Life-Saving Protection at Corbett Pharmacy Droitwich Travel Clinic

Introduction: Why I Strongly Recommend the Rabies Vaccine

As Chief Pharmacist and Travel Clinic Lead at Corbett Pharmacy in Droitwich, one of the most important vaccines I offer is the Rabies vaccine.

Unlike many other travel illnesses, Rabies is almost 100% fatal once symptoms develop. Sadly, there is no cure. That’s why prevention through vaccination is so vital for travellers, particularly those visiting rural or high-risk areas abroad.

Every year, I see patients heading to destinations like India, Thailand, and Indonesia – all countries where Rabies is still widespread. Many people are surprised to learn that it doesn’t take a deep bite to be at risk – even a scratch or lick from an infected animal can transmit the virus.

➡️ If you’re travelling soon, don’t take chances: Book your Rabies vaccine at our Droitwich Travel Clinic.

What is Rabies?

Rabies is a viral infection that attacks the nervous system. It spreads through the saliva of infected animals, usually from:

• Dog bites (the most common source worldwide)

• Monkey scratches or bites (common in tourist areas of Asia)

• Bats and other wild animals

Symptoms of Rabies include:

• Fever and headache

• Tingling or pain at the site of the bite or scratch

• Muscle spasms, difficulty swallowing

• Fear of water (hydrophobia)

• Confusion, paralysis, and eventually coma

Once symptoms appear, Rabies is almost always fatal. That’s why prevention and immediate treatment after exposure are essential.

For more, see: NHS – Rabies.

Where is Rabies Found?

Rabies is present in more than 150 countries worldwide, particularly in:

• South Asia – India, Nepal, Bangladesh

• South-East Asia – Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia

• Africa – especially rural areas with limited veterinary services

• South America – particularly in remote communities

The World Health Organization estimates 59,000 deaths worldwide each year, mostly in Asia and Africa.

➡️ Heading to one of these regions? Book your Rabies vaccine today.

How Does the Rabies Vaccine Work?

The Rabies vaccine stimulates your immune system to produce antibodies that protect against the virus if you are bitten or scratched.

Key facts about the Rabies vaccine at Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic:

• Requires a course of 2–3 doses given over 3–4 weeks

• Provides strong protection, especially when combined with post-exposure treatment if needed

• Can be given to adults and children

• Provides long-lasting protection, with boosters recommended depending on risk level

➡️ Learn more: Rabies Vaccine – Droitwich Travel Clinic

Who Should Get the Rabies Vaccine?

I strongly recommend Rabies vaccination if you are:

• Travelling to India, Thailand, Indonesia, or Africa

• Spending time in rural areas or remote communities

• Working or volunteering with animals abroad

• A long-term traveller, gap year student, or backpacker

• Visiting tourist areas with free-roaming monkeys (e.g., temples in Thailand or Bali)

• Taking children abroad (as they are at higher risk of animal bites and may not report contact)

What if You’re Exposed to Rabies Abroad?

If you’re bitten, scratched, or even licked by an animal abroad:

1. Wash the wound immediately with soap and water for at least 15 minutes.

2. Seek medical care straight away – even if the wound looks minor.

3. If you’ve had pre-exposure Rabies vaccines, you’ll only need 2 booster doses after exposure.

4. If you’ve never been vaccinated, you’ll need a full course of post-exposure treatment (and sometimes immunoglobulin, which is often hard to access abroad).

This is why I always stress: it’s much safer to be vaccinated before you travel.

Other Vaccines Often Given Alongside Rabies

Because Rabies risk overlaps with other travel risks, I often provide the Rabies vaccine as part of a package, alongside:

• Tetanus – important if you suffer cuts or bites abroad

• Typhoid – common in India and Asia

• Hepatitis A – food and waterborne protection

• Japanese Encephalitis – for rural Asia

➡️ I’ll design a personalised vaccine plan for your trip: Book Now

Rabies vs. Other Travel Infections

Here’s how Rabies compares to other serious travel illnesses:

Side Effects of the Rabies Vaccine

The Rabies vaccine is very safe.

Common mild side effects:

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site

• Mild headache or tiredness

• Low-grade fever

Rare side effects:

• Allergic reaction (extremely rare)

I always review your health history before giving the vaccine to ensure it’s appropriate for you.

Frequently Asked Questions – Rabies Vaccine

1. Do I really need the Rabies vaccine for travel?
If you’re visiting rural or high-risk areas in Asia, Africa, or South America, yes. It could save your life.

2. How many doses do I need?
A course of 2–3 doses before travel. Boosters may be needed depending on future travel.

3. Can children get the Rabies vaccine?
Yes – in fact, I often recommend it because children are at higher risk of animal bites.

4. How long before travel should I get it?
Ideally 6–8 weeks before travel, but last-minute protection is still possible.

5. Is the Rabies vaccine free on the NHS?
Not usually. It’s only available privately for travel purposes.

6. What if I can’t finish the full course before I go?
You may still benefit from partial protection, but it’s best to complete the full schedule before departure.

7. Do I still need treatment if I’ve had the Rabies vaccine?
Yes – but treatment is simpler (2 booster doses rather than full immunoglobulin).

Why Choose Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic for Your Rabies Vaccine?

Patients from Droitwich, Worcester, and across Worcestershire trust us because:

• We stock the full Rabies vaccine course

• I (Aran Bassi) personally deliver all travel consultations

• We provide flexible, quick appointments – perfect for last-minute travel

• We combine Rabies with other travel vaccines in one visit

• We give expert, personalised advice based on your itinerary

➡️ Don’t risk your health abroad: Book your Rabies vaccine today

Conclusion: Protect Yourself from Rabies Before You Travel

Rabies is one of the most serious travel risks – and it’s still widespread in many parts of the world. Once symptoms appear, it’s too late. The Rabies vaccine offers safe, effective, and life-saving protection.

At Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic, I’ll make sure you’re protected, informed, and ready for your trip.

➡️ Book your Rabies vaccine appointment today

Written by:
Aran Bassi
Chief Pharmacist & Travel Clinic Lead
Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic
36 Corbett Avenue, Droitwich, WR9 7BE
📞 01905 795618