So, I was previously immunised for rabies before coming to Asia around 7 years ago.

 

A few days ago I was bitten by a cat. I decided to go to doctor just to be on safe side.

 

I was under the impression I would just need 2 booster jabs (day 0 and day 3), but he said that is only for people who were immunised within a year. And since I was immunised 7 years ago, he said I will need a full course of 5 jabs.

 

He did, however, say that there is no need for the active vaccine, just the inactive ones.

 

I couldn't find any evidence online supporting what he said. I don't want to get more than I have to.

 

Any thoughts?

You indeed need only 2 injections (and no immune globulin).  The duration of protection from prior  rabies vaccine is at least 10 years.

 

See p. 28 of the attached

 

FAQs_Rabies.pdf

 

 

Thank you

Thank you

 

I guess imune globulin is the "active" one the doctor was refering too?

 

I already got my first shot on the same day. I go for my 2nd tomorrow.

Yes, immune globulin t=is the "active" immunization and you do nto need it. Just 2 vaccinations.

Thanks again. I appreciate your quick responses.

 

I went this morning for my 2nd dose. The doc wasn't there.

 

The nurse said exactly the same thing as the doctor without me prompting her (giving the reasons that it's been over a year since I was immunized and also because they can't observe the animal for 10 days).

 

I still believe the information I have read online and trust Sheryl's experience and knowledge, but I still find it weird how adament they are. 

 

They are also aware that I won't be able to go back to their hospital for the future doses as I am going back to the part of Thailand where I normally stay, but they just say, "go to your local hospital to finish all doses on the schedule".

 

They gave me Adhayrab brand (don't suppose that makes a difference though). On the data sheet for this brand it says you should have a yearly booster. Maybe that's why they think one year is significant.