What is Anti Rabies Vaccine?

The Anti Rabies Vaccine is a biological product that can save lives by protecting against rabies, a disease caused by a virus in the Lyssavirus genus.

People get rabies most of the time when an affected animal, like a dog, bat, fox, or raccoon, bites or scratches them.

Once symptoms show up, rabies is almost always deadly, so getting vaccinated right away after being exposed is very important.

Overview

Description

Rabies is still a big problem for public health in a lot of places around the world, especially in Asia and Africa.

The anti-rabies vaccine can be used both before and after exposure (in all individuals who may be exposed to the virus) to protect against and treat the disease.

The vaccine contains a dead rabies virus, which prompts the body’s immune system to produce virus-neutralizing antibodies (VNAs).

These antibodies stop the virus from getting to the brain and spinal cord, stopping the disease from getting worse.

Uses / Indications

For any animal bite, this drug can help in preventing rabies.

Benefits

If provided appropriately and in a timely manner, it can prevent fatal diseases.

All age groups, including infants, youngsters, the elderly, and pregnant women, can use it without risk and receive the desired results.

Long-lasting immune protection (boosters are only required in certain high-risk patients)

The administration of this medication is possible even in individuals who are severely immunocompromised (with close supervision).

Relatively high success rate in preventing clinical rabies even after extensive exposure to the virus

Side Effects

How Does It Work?

The Anti-Rabies Vaccine works by stimulating the body’s immune system to produce antibodies that fight the rabies virus.

These antibodies help the body find the virus and fight it off before it gets to the brain and spinal cord, where it almost always kills the person.

The rabies virus in the vaccine has been killed, so it is safe and can’t make you sick, but it is strong enough to make your immune system work better.

As post-exposure prophylaxis, it helps stop the disease from getting worse and signs from showing up after exposure.

Directions for Use

Administer intramuscularly (IM) in the deltoid for adults or anterolateral thigh for newborns.

To prevent diminished efficacy, do not inject into the gluteal region.

Follow the suggested schedule without missing any doses.

Utilise only WHO-approved vaccines and qualified staff for administering intradermal (ID) injections.

Administrate a fresh sterile syringe for each injection and follow aseptic procedures.

When Not to Use

Severe allergic reaction to any of the ingredients in the prior rabies vaccine

High-fever acute sickness

Ongoing neurological conditions that are not yet identified or controlled

Drug Interactions

Immunosuppressants: It may diminish the efficiency of the vaccine. Close surveillance or other post-exposure prophylaxis regimens may be necessary.

Chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine may disrupt the antibody response, especially when administered intradermally.

Other vaccinations: They may be co-administered at distinct injection locations utilizing separate syringes.

Safety Advice

General Instructions

To get full protection, the anti-rabies vaccine should only be given at the times suggested, with no missed doses.

Always have a trained medical professional give the vaccine. For adults, it should go into the deltoid Muscle.

For toddlers, utilize the front of the thigh. Please do not put it into the gluteal area because it might not work as well.

For at least 15 to 30 minutes after each dose, the patient should be watched for any signs of an allergic response.

Keep the area clean, especially where the shot was given, and don’t press on or massage it.

For the best results, finish the whole course, even if the wound seems small or heals quickly.

Special Dietary / Lifestyle Advice

Stay hydrated and eat foods that are high in nutrients to help your immune system.

If you get a fever or feel tired after getting a vaccine, don’t do anything too hard for 24 hours.

Take care of your cuts by washing the area with soap and running water immediately and for at least 15 minutes.

Refrain from putting things that are irritating on cuts, like turmeric or chili.

Comparison with Other Treatments

Active vaccination, such as the Anti-Rabies Vaccine, stimulates the immune system to create long-term protection against rabies.

Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) provides passive immunization and short-term protection with ready-made antibodies.

Vaccination is essential for both pre-and post-exposure prophylaxis.

However, RIG is only used for Category III exposures, like severe bites or scratches, and for unvaccinated patients.

The rabies vaccine stops the virus from entering the nervous system.

This is different from how antibiotics or antivirals work.

This vaccine-RIG combination is virtually 100% effective when administered promptly and correctly.

Precautions & Warnings

Patients with bleeding problems or thrombocytopenia should utilize this medicine with carefulness.

Avoid administering vaccines that have been opened or stored incorrectly.

Follow all national immunization schedules at all times.

Vaccines not qualified for intradermal administration should not be administered.

The vaccine loses its effectiveness when frozen, so avoid doing so.

Can It Be Used With Other Medications?

It can be used with:

Paracetamol and NSAIDs for fever/pain

Antibiotics

Tetanus vaccine

Other routine immunizations

Avoid Using With:

High-dose corticosteroids or immunosuppressants, unless unavoidable

Chloroquine

Storage

Storage temperature must be at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius

Avoid freezing since it can harm the vaccine.

Store in a dark location and use the original container for storage.

When storing or transporting perishable goods, always adhere to cold chain regulations.