The vaccine trains your body to recognize and fight the rabies virus before it can cause disease.

What is Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG)?

Provides immediate protection while vaccine works • Provides immediate protection while vaccine works Given around the wound • Given around the wound Required for Category III exposures (deep bites, face bites) • Required for Category III exposures (deep bites, face bites) Only needed once on Day 0 • Only needed once on Day 0

When to Contact Doctor:?

High fever (>102°F) • High fever (>102°F) Severe allergic reaction (rare) • Severe allergic reaction (rare) Unusual swelling • Unusual swelling Difficulty breathing (very rare) • Difficulty breathing (very rare)

Who Should Consider It?

Veterinarians • Veterinarians Animal handlers • Animal handlers Lab workers handling rabies virus • Lab workers handling rabies virus Travelers to high-risk areas • Travelers to high-risk areas Children in areas with many stray dogs • Children in areas with many stray dogs

Q: My child is scared of injections. What can I do?

A: Distract with videos or toys during the injection. Apply EMLA cream 30 minutes before (numbs the skin). Explain that this will keep them safe. The injection is quick and much easier than old stomach injections.

Q: Can we space out the doses more?

A: It's best to follow the recommended schedule. However, if a dose is missed, consult your doctor - it can usually be adjusted. Don't skip the entire course.

Q: Do we need vaccine if the dog was vaccinated?

A: Even if the dog appears vaccinated, consult a doctor. They'll assess the risk and may still recommend prophylaxis, especially if vaccination records are uncertain.

Q: How much does the full course cost?

A: At government hospitals, it's often free. At private clinics, 5 doses may cost Rs. 2000-3000 total. Immunoglobulin (if needed) adds more. Health insurance may cover it.

Q: Is there a cure for rabies if symptoms start?

A: Unfortunately, no. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal. This is why prevention through immediate vaccination is so crucial.

Q: How long is the vaccine effective?

A: Protection lasts for years. If bitten again after completing a full course, only 2 booster doses are needed on Days 0 and 3. --- This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025 Questions about rabies vaccination? Chat with Babynama's pediatricians on WhatsApp for immediate guidance. --- Need personalized guidance? Book a consultation with our pediatricians or explore our Care Plans for 24/7 expert support!

Rabies Vaccination Facts And Myths

Quick Answer

The modern rabies vaccine (teeka) is safe, effective, and given in the arm - NOT in the stomach like the old days! Rabies is 100% preventable with timely vaccination after a dog bite. Don't believe outdated myths - getting the vaccine promptly after any animal bite can save your child's life.

Day	Dose	Notes
Day 0	1st dose	Same day as bite
Day 3	2nd dose	3 days after first
Day 7	3rd dose	7 days after first
Day 14	4th dose	14 days after first
Day 28	5th dose	May be optional for Category II

Download the app

Rabies Vaccination Facts And Myths

Quick Answer

Understanding Rabies Vaccination in India

Common Myths vs. Facts

MYTH 1: "Rabies vaccine is given in the stomach and is very painful"

MYTH 2: "If the dog is healthy/pet dog, no vaccine is needed"

MYTH 3: "Minor scratches don't need treatment"

MYTH 4: "Putting chili/haldi on the wound helps"

MYTH 5: "If the dog dies within 10 days, you need more injections"

MYTH 6: "The vaccine causes serious side effects"

MYTH 7: "Pregnant women and babies can't get rabies vaccine"

MYTH 8: "If we missed one dose, the whole course is wasted"

The Truth About Modern Rabies Vaccines

How They Work:

Types Available in India:

Standard Schedule (WHO Recommended):

What is Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG)?

What to Expect After Vaccination

Common Side Effects (Normal - Don't Worry):

When to Contact Doctor:

Age-Specific Information

Infants and Toddlers

School-age Children

Adults and Elderly

Where to Get Vaccinated

Government Hospitals:

Private Hospitals and Clinics:

Pre-Exposure Vaccination

Who Should Consider It?

Schedule:

FAQs

Q: My child is scared of injections. What can I do?

Q: Can we space out the doses more?

Q: Do we need vaccine if the dog was vaccinated?

Q: How much does the full course cost?

Q: Is there a cure for rabies if symptoms start?

Q: How long is the vaccine effective?

Get 24/7 Expert Pediatric Care

Share this article

Continue Reading

The 6-in-1 Vaccine in India: A Complete Guide for Parents

Ouch or Ahh? Choosing Between Painful vs. Painless DTP Vaccines for Your Baby in India

Common Vaccine Side Effects and How to Deal with Them

Vaccines, breastfeeding tied to decline in ear infections

Care After Dog Bite And Rabies