Australia has recently raised a significant health warning regarding the fake rabies vaccine, Abhayrab®, that has been circulating in India since November 1, 2023. This alert was jointly issued by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) and the Department of Health in Victoria.
If you have received this particular vaccine during your time in India, it is crucial to understand that you may not be adequately protected against rabies. Health officials strongly advise those affected to seek replacement doses of a rabies vaccine that is officially registered in Australia to ensure proper immunity.
This warning isn't limited just to the Abhayrab® vaccine; it also extends to any rabies vaccine administered in India that is of unknown origin.
Here’s what health authorities recommend:
- If you have received one or more doses of Abhayrab® or an unidentified rabies vaccine brand in India after November 1, 2023, it’s essential to consult your general practitioner (GP) or healthcare provider. They may suggest that you receive additional doses of the correct vaccine to secure your health.
In light of recent events, travelers to India should be particularly vigilant about rabies. A recent case involving a human infection in a traveler returning to the United States highlights the potential risks associated with rabies and counterfeit vaccines. For further reading, you can check the travel notice here: Rabies Travel Notice for India.
For those planning visits to countries where rabies is prevalent, here are some general precautions to consider:
- Prior to traveling, engage with your GP, a travel health clinic, or an immunization specialist about the vaccines recommended for your destination.
- Steer clear of contact with both wild and domestic animals during your travels. If you do happen to get bitten, scratched, or come into contact with an animal's saliva, seek immediate medical attention.
- Maintain thorough documentation of any vaccinations received while abroad, noting the dates, product names, and batch numbers. If possible, take photos of the packaging and labels for your records.
- Once you return to Australia, discuss with your GP whether any further vaccine doses are necessary based on your travel history.
According to information from the Victoria Department of Health, rabies is an uncommon yet extremely deadly disease that impacts the central nervous system. The disease is caused by the rabies virus, which is transmitted to humans through bites or scratches from infected animals. While rabies is not present in Australia, it is endemic in numerous regions worldwide, including India. Symptoms of the disease can manifest anywhere from just a few days to several years after exposure. To prevent the onset of the disease following potential exposure to infected animals, it is vital to initiate immediate wound care and post-exposure prophylaxis, which may include receiving a rabies vaccine along with rabies immunoglobulin.
