Human Rabies Vaccine

Provider Level

RN/Paramedic

Class

Viral vaccine, active immunizing agent

Mechanism of Action

Induces active immunity against the rabies virus by stimulating the production of rabies-neutralizing antibodies.

Indications

Post-exposure prophylaxis following suspected or confirmed exposure to rabies. Pre-exposure prophylaxis for individuals at high risk of exposure.

Contraindications

There are no absolute contraindications for post-exposure prophylaxis due to the universally fatal nature of clinical rabies. Severe hypersensitivity to the vaccine or its components is a contraindication only for pre-exposure prophylaxis.

Routes

IM

Onset / Duration

Onset of measurable antibody response is typically 7 to 10 days. Duration of immunity can last several years but may require booster doses depending on exposure and risk.

Adverse Effects

Injection site reactions including pain swelling and erythema, headache, nausea, muscle aches, dizziness, and rare hypersensitivity or anaphylaxis.

Precautions & Interactions

Do not administer in the gluteal region due to the risk of reduced antibody response. Administer in the deltoid muscle for adults and older children, or the anterolateral thigh for infants and young children.

Special Considerations

Typically initiated in the emergency department rather than the prehospital setting. When administered for post-exposure prophylaxis, it is usually given concurrently with Human Rabies Immune Globulin which must be injected at a separate anatomical site.