When planning travel to regions with a risk of rabies, many people ask: how long does rabies vaccine last? And more specifically, is one course enough to protect you for life? At Mendus Pharmacy Travel Clinic, we hear these questions often — and there’s plenty of confusion surrounding the answers.
With updated guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO) and evolving NHS travel health policies, it’s time to debunk the myths and give you clear, accurate information. Below, we break down the facts, clarify common misconceptions, and explain how our private travel vaccine service can support you before your trip.
Myth 1: Once you’ve had a rabies vaccine, you’re protected for life
Fact: Not necessarily.
If you’ve had the pre-exposure rabies vaccine (typically two or three doses before travelling), you do gain long-term protection. However, this doesn’t mean you’re fully covered for life without any further action.
Recent WHO guidance suggests that two doses of rabies vaccine given at least one week apart offer long-lasting immunity — potentially for life — but only in terms of reducing the urgency of post-exposure treatment.
This means that if you’re exposed to a potentially rabid animal, you’ll still need two booster doses (given on days 0 and 3) after the exposure. However, you can avoid immunoglobulin, which may not be readily available in some countries.
That said, some health authorities (including the UK’s NHS) may still recommend a booster every 10 years if you’re at continual risk. Our advice? If you’re travelling to a high-risk area or are unsure when you last had the vaccine, book a travel consultation to check your current protection status.
Myth 2: You only need the rabies vaccine if you’re going deep into the jungle
Fact: Rabies isn’t just a risk in remote regions.
While rural and wild areas are certainly high risk, rabies is present in urban and tourist areas in many parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Stray dogs, cats, monkeys, and even bats can carry the virus.
Backpackers, gap year students, children, and long-stay travellers are particularly at risk — especially if they’ll be staying in areas with limited medical access. If you’re planning extended travel, outdoor activities, or volunteering with animals, pre-exposure vaccination is strongly advised.
At Mendus Pharmacy, we offer tailored advice depending on your destination, length of stay, and risk profile.
Myth 3: If you’ve had the rabies vaccine before, you don’t need to do anything before your next trip
Fact: You might need a booster — and at the very least, a review.
Depending on when you had your initial rabies vaccine course, your level of immunity may have waned. The NHS generally recommends a booster after 10 years for those continuing to travel to high-risk areas.
The WHO recognises that two doses provide long-term protection, but many travellers (especially those vaccinated under older schedules) received three doses spaced out over weeks or months. A booster may still be recommended to refresh your immune response and ensure effective protection.
If you’re unsure of your vaccine history, we can help you review your records and decide whether a top-up is needed.
Myth 4: Rabies is so rare, it’s not worth bothering with the vaccine
Fact: Rabies is rare because of vaccination and caution — but when it occurs, it’s nearly always fatal.
Once symptoms begin, rabies is almost 100% fatal. The virus attacks the central nervous system and cannot be cured once established. That’s why prevention is so critical.
Pre-exposure vaccination isn’t just about avoiding the disease — it also simplifies and speeds up your treatment if you’re ever bitten or scratched. Without prior vaccination, the full post-exposure protocol includes immunoglobulin, which may not be available in some parts of the world.
Protect Yourself with Mendus Pharmacy’s Travel Vaccine Service
We offer a comprehensive private travel vaccination service, including rabies protection, for individuals and families planning trips to high-risk destinations.
Our service includes:
One-to-one travel consultations
Full pre-exposure rabies vaccine courses
Booster dose reviews and administration
Personalised advice on what to do after an exposure
Guidance on additional travel vaccinations such as hepatitis A, typhoid, yellow fever, and more
Appointments are available at short notice, and we carry a full stock of vaccines for fast and flexible protection.
Book Now to Travel Safely and Confidently
So, how long does the rabies vaccine last? The answer depends on your vaccine history, risk level, and current travel plans — but the good news is that long-term protection is possible with the right preparation.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Contact Mendus Pharmacy today to book your travel consultation online to ensure you’re fully protected before you fly. Safe travel starts with smart prevention.