Rabies Travel Vaccine

Why Rabies Is a Serious Concern for Travellers

Rabies is a deadly viral infection that affects the brain and nervous system. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal. The virus is spread through the saliva of infected animals, typically via bites or scratches. In many parts of the world, rabies is still prevalent in stray dogs, monkeys, and bats — making it a very real risk for UK travellers.

At Gloucester Clinic, we offer the full rabies vaccination course to help protect you before you travel. If you’re heading to a destination where rabies is present, it’s important to consider vaccination well in advance.

How the Rabies Vaccine Works

The rabies vaccine is given as a course of three injections over 21 to 28 days. This course provides strong pre-exposure protection, which simplifies post-exposure treatment if you're ever bitten or scratched while abroad.

We also offer rapid schedules and post-exposure treatment if needed. Book a consultation with our clinical team to determine the right plan for you:
gloucesterclinic.co.uk/bookingtravelvaccine

Who Should Consider the Rabies Vaccine?

While rabies isn’t a routine vaccine for every traveller, it’s strongly recommended for:

• Long-stay travellers (especially over 1 month)

• Adventure travellers or backpackers

• Children (as they’re less likely to report bites)

• Anyone working with animals

• Travellers visiting rural areas or regions with poor access to medical care

Destinations Where Rabies Vaccination Is Advised

Rabies is still present in many parts of Asia, Africa, and South America. Specific countries where rabies vaccination is often recommended include:

• India

• Vietnam

• Thailand

• Kenya

• Indonesia (including Bali)

• Nepal

• Bangladesh

• Sri Lanka

• Philippines

• China

• Peru

• Bolivia

• Ethiopia

• Tanzania

• Uganda

For destination-specific advice, explore our travel vaccine guides:

• Vietnam Travel Vaccines

• Thailand Travel Vaccines

• India Travel Vaccines

• Kenya Travel Vaccines

• Bali Travel Vaccines

When to Get the Rabies Vaccine

We recommend starting the rabies vaccine course at least 4–6 weeks before departure to ensure full protection. Gloucester Clinic offers flexible scheduling and carries the rabies vaccine in stock.

If you're travelling sooner, our clinicians can discuss accelerated options. Book online today:
gloucesterclinic.co.uk/bookingtravelvaccine

What to Do If You’re Bitten Abroad

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal in a rabies-risk area:

1. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water.

2. Seek medical help immediately.

3. Contact Gloucester Clinic or local health services for guidance.

If you've been pre-vaccinated, the treatment required abroad is simpler and more accessible.

Why Choose Gloucester Clinic for Rabies Vaccination?

• GPhC-registered clinicians with travel health expertise

• Convenient Cheltenham location serving Gloucester and Gloucestershire

• All rabies vaccines in stock with flexible booking

• Friendly, experienced team offering personalised care

Find our clinic at 305 High St, Cheltenham GL50 3HW.

Final Thoughts from Gloucester Clinic

Rabies may be rare in the UK, but it’s still a risk in many parts of the world. If you're travelling to a region where rabies is present, getting vaccinated before you go is a smart and potentially life-saving decision.

Book your rabies vaccine consultation today:
gloucesterclinic.co.uk/bookingtravelvaccine