When planning a trip abroad, most travellers remember to pack their passport, sun cream, and travel insurance—but fewer think about their vaccination history. Rabies, a life-threatening viral infection, is still prevalent in many parts of the world. If you’re heading to certain destinations, ensuring your rabies vaccine is up to date is an essential part of your travel health checklist.

At Midnight Pharmacy in Bradford, we help travellers prepare for safe, stress-free journeys. One of the most common questions we hear is: how long does the rabies vaccine last? The answer depends on the type of vaccine course you received, your travel plans, and your level of risk. In this blog post, we’ll highlight the top destinations where a rabies booster might be recommended, and explain what you need to know before you go.

Understanding Rabies Risk

Rabies is a viral infection transmitted through the bite, scratch, or lick of an infected animal—usually dogs, but also bats, monkeys, and other mammals. Once symptoms begin, rabies is almost always fatal. That’s why prevention is key.

In many high-risk countries, access to prompt medical treatment (known as post-exposure prophylaxis) is limited or delayed. Receiving a pre-exposure rabies vaccine provides critical protection for travellers who may be exposed far from medical facilities.

How Long Does the Rabies Vaccine Last?

If you’ve had the full pre-exposure rabies vaccine course—typically two or three doses—you are protected for at least one year. However, for those at continued or repeated risk, a booster dose is recommended every 2–5 years.

Some updated guidelines from the World Health Organization now state that a single booster may provide long-term immunity in certain individuals. However, if you’re heading to a rabies-endemic area and it’s been more than five years since your last dose, it’s wise to check your records and consult our travel health clinic team for personalised advice.

Top Destinations Where a Rabies Booster Might Be Needed

Here are some of the most common travel destinations where rabies remains a significant concern:

1. India

India reports the highest number of rabies deaths in the world, with many stray dogs in both urban and rural areas. Travellers volunteering, backpacking, or working in remote locations are strongly advised to receive a booster if their last rabies vaccination was more than a few years ago.

2. Thailand

Monkeys at tourist sites such as Lopburi and temples in places like Krabi or Phuket have been known to bite or scratch visitors. Rabies in dogs and cats is also a risk in rural areas. If you plan to explore off the beaten track or interact with wildlife, a booster may be recommended.

3. Indonesia (including Bali)

While Bali is a popular holiday spot, it has had recurrent rabies outbreaks among stray dogs. Rabies post-exposure treatment may not be readily available in more remote parts of the country, making pre-travel boosters an important safety measure.

4. Vietnam

With many unvaccinated street dogs and limited post-exposure resources outside major cities, Vietnam presents a moderate-to-high rabies risk. A booster is especially important for long stays or adventure travel.

5. Philippines

Rabies remains endemic in both urban and rural settings. Children, who may not report animal bites or scratches, are at increased risk. Families travelling with children should consider ensuring all relevant vaccines, including rabies, are up to date.

6. Nepal

Many trekking routes, especially those in rural Himalayan regions, expose travellers to animals that may carry rabies. Access to urgent care in these areas is limited, and a rabies booster offers added peace of mind.

Who Should Consider a Rabies Booster?

You may need a booster before travel if:

• –> It’s been more than 2–5 years since your last rabies dose

• –> You’re travelling to a high-risk country

• –> You’ll be staying for a prolonged period or in rural areas

• –> You plan close contact with animals (e.g. volunteering or veterinary work)

• –> You’re unsure of your vaccination history

At Midnight Pharmacy in Bradford, we can review your records, assess your risk, and advise whether a booster is necessary. We also offer the full rabies vaccine course for first-time travellers or those with incomplete records.

Travel With Confidence

When it comes to travel, preparation is everything—and understanding how long does the rabies vaccine last can help you stay protected in destinations where rabies remains a serious threat.

Our travel health service at Midnight Pharmacy is designed to make pre-travel care easy and stress-free. We offer rabies vaccinations, boosters, and tailored advice based on your travel itinerary. Whether you’re heading to India, Indonesia, or anywhere in between, we’re here to help you travel with confidence.

Contact us to book your travel consultation with Midnight Pharmacy in Bradford today to check your rabies vaccine status and get the protection you need. Safe travels start here.

This blog was written on behalf of Midnight Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.