Rabies Vaccines

The rabies virus is a deadly virus that is spread primarily through the saliva of an animal that is infected with the virus. The virus is usually spread to humans via an animal bite. Rabies is almost deadly in all cases if not treated upon exposure.

Call 310.358.2400 or come into the pharmacy to book an appointment.

What happens if a person gets rabies?

If you contract rabies, and do not seek treatment, death is almost certain. You will not experience rabies symptoms right away, they may take weeks to months, or even a year, to appear. Once you experience symptoms of rabies, there is currently no treatment available. Symptoms of rabies include fever, pain, tingling or burning around the wound site, hallucinations, lack of coordination and paralysis.

How do I treat rabies exposure?

Firstly, the area should be thoroughly cleaned with soap and water. If there are multiple bites / scratches, or if the wound was exposed to saliva from the animal, you will need the rabies immune globulin as the first step then start rabies post-exposure prophylaxis. This is a series of 4 rabies vaccines. After the initial vaccine is given, the subsequent vaccines are given on days 3, 7 and 14.

How long do you have to get a rabies vaccine after being bitten?

It is important to seek treatment as soon as possible after a suspected rabies exposure. It is never too late to start treatment, but sooner is better.

What are the chances of getting rabies from a dog bite in the US?

The risk of rabies from a dog bit in the USA is rare. Rabies is more common in other animals such as foxes, skunks and bats. Rabies from dog bites in developing countries is significantly higher and these instances should be treated as a medical emergency.

What to do after a monkey bite?

Seek medical attention!! Most likely, if you are bitten by a monkey, you will be traveling in a developing country and there is a risk of rabies. You will need to seek medical attention in that country and start a course of rabies vaccines. Depending on how long you are traveling for, you will have to complete your rabies vaccination course back in the USA to keep on schedule.

How many rabies injections do I need?

It depends on the reason for the vaccine. If you are receiving the vaccines for vaccination purposes you need 2 vaccines 7 days apart. For ongoing coverage, you may need a booster depending your risk. If you are receiving the vaccines after exposure to rabies then you will need 4 vaccines. These are the current CDC guidelines for commercially available rabies vaccine in the USA. Some foreign countries may have different approved formulations of the rabies vaccine and may recommend 5 doses as part of the course.

I have Medi-Cal. Does Medi-Cal cover rabies vaccines?

As of October 2024, Medi-Cal covers the rabies vaccine.

I work Monday to Friday, are you open weekends?

Yes! Travel health can be provided during Saturday opening hours. Travel health appointments can be pre-arranged outside of regular business hours and on Sunday. House calls are also available.