Rabies is not a virus that is present in the UK, but it exists across continents including Africa, Asia, The Americas and Australia. Rabies is still carried by dogs and other mammals including bats. The rabies virus is transmitted to humans when an infected animal bites or scratches, allowing the virus to enter the body. Once within the muscle, the virus travels along the peripheral nerves until it reaches the central nervous system, causing inflammation of the brain. Symptoms take around one to three months to appear, depending on how long it takes for the virus to travel to the brain. Symptoms include violent movements, extreme fear of water, confusion and loss of consciousness. Once the symptoms have started, rabies is fatal in most cases. Having the rabies vaccine prior to leaving the UK is therefore of great importance for anyone who may be at risk of rabies when travelling abroad.
Rabies is considered to be a neglected tropical disease, and in September, World Rabies Day promotes prevention and eradication of the virus. More than three billion people live in regions of the world where rabies occurs and in 2015, over 17,000 people died as a result of rabies, with most of these deaths occurring in Africa. We are lucky to be able to access the rabies vaccine easily within the UK, and booking your vaccination may be the best decision you ever make.
Rabies Vaccination Walsall
At Touchwood Pharmacy in Walsall, the rabies vaccine costs just £55 per dose. Our travel clinic is conveniently located and getting the rabies vaccine has never been simpler. Our experienced vaccine specialists are able to offer advice on other vaccinations you may require for your trip, and can offer advice on other travel health advice you may require, including protection from mosquitoes. For a full service under one roof, look no further than Touchwood Pharmacy in Walsall.
Book to see a pharmacist for the rabies vaccine today.
