Human rabies is a viral disease transmitted by the bite of an infected animal. It is characterized by acute encephalomyelitis (an aggressive response of the immune system that destroys the myelin layer of the nerves and alters its function at the level of the brain or spinal cord).
Vaccination is indicated in the following cases:
- Prevention of rabies in subjects exposed to risk of contamination. It is recommended for certain international travelers, based on the occurrence of animal rabies in the destination country.
Scheme type:
There are two types.
1. Pre-exposure scheme, consists of three doses of rabies vaccine:
- First dose, on the chosen date.
- Second dose 7 days after the first dose.
- Third dose 28 days after the first dose.
2. Post-exposure scheme, people not vaccinated against rabies, consists of five doses of rabies vaccine.
- First dose, on the date indicated.
- Second dose 3 days after the first dose.
- Third dose 7 days after the first dose.
- Fourth dose 14 days after the first dose.
- Fifth dose 28 days after the first dose.
* If the individual continues to be at risk of exposure to the disease, revaccination should be considered.
