Feral dog infected with Rabies virus.
Patient receiving Rabies vaccine for protection before travelling to high-risk areas.
Feral dog infected with Rabies virus.

What Is Rabies?

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans. Once the virus enters the body, it travels along the nerves to the brain, causing inflammation (encephalitis) and severe neurological symptoms. If symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal. However, it is preventable through vaccination, either before potential exposure or travel to at-risk areas (pre-exposure prophylaxis) or after exposure (post-exposure prophylaxis).

How Does Rabies Spread?

Rabies is mainly spread through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, especially dogs, via saliva. It can also transmit through saliva contacting open wounds or mucous membranes. Travellers to rabies-prone areas should exercise caution around animals and consult reliable sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s website or a doctor concerning vaccination.

Rabies is mainly spread through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, especially dogs.

Rabies Symptoms

Rabies symptoms are classified into three stages: prodromal (early), furious, and paralytic. The incubation period, which is the time between exposure to the virus and the onset of symptoms, usually ranges from 1 to 3 months but can vary from a few days to over a year.

Stage of Infection Symptoms
Prodromal Stage (2-10 days) During the prodromal phase, initial rabies symptoms resemble the flu and may last several days, including:
  • Weakness
  • Fever
  • Headaches
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Discomfort, tingling, or burning at the bite site
Furious Rabies (2-7 days) As rabies progresses, 70-80% of cases enter the furious phase, marked by neurological symptoms such as:
  • Hyperactivity and agitation
  • Anxiety and confusion
  • Hallucinations
  • Difficulty swallowing, leading to hydrophobia (fear of water)
  • Seizures
Paralytic Rabies (2-7 days) In 20-30% of cases, rabies manifests as paralytic (or "dumb") rabies instead of the “furious” form, with symptoms including:
  • Progressive muscle weakness, starting at the bite site
  • Gradual paralysis, beginning in the limbs and spreading to the rest of the body
  • Loss of reflexes
  • Coma

Once symptoms of rabies appear, the disease almost always leads to death, underscoring the critical importance of early intervention and post-exposure prophylaxis.

Who Is the Rabies Vaccine Recommended for?

Pre-exposure Vaccination / Pre-exposure Rabies Prophylaxis (PrEP)

The rabies vaccine is strongly advised for those at high risk, such as veterinarians, animal handlers, and lab workers who regularly interact with animals or the virus. Travellers to rabies-prone regions and outdoor enthusiasts like campers or hikers should also get vaccinated as a preventive measure.

Post-exposure Vaccination / Post-exposure Rabies Prophylaxis (PEP)

If bitten or scratched by a potentially rabid animal, or after close contact with one, immediate vaccination is essential. Even those previously vaccinated need additional doses to ensure full protection after exposure.

Rabies Vaccine Route of Administration

The vaccine is administered via an intramuscular injection.

Rabies Vaccine Dose & Schedule

The recommended dosage and schedule for the rabies vaccine is as follows:

Vaccination Status Vaccine Dose & Schedule
Pre-exposure (Not Vaccinated) 2 Doses: Day 0 and Day 7
3rd dose may be recommended depending on exposure risk.
Post-exposure (Previously Vaccinated) 2 Doses: Day 0 and Day 3
Post-exposure (Not Vaccinated) 4 Doses: Day 0, Day 3, Day 7 and Day 14
Rabies Immune Globulin also needs to be administered on Day 0 or soon after.

Please note that our clinic does not currently provide Rabies Immune Globulin necessary for post-exposure prophylaxis. Patients are advised to proceed to the nearest Accident & Emergency (A&E) department to receive this treatment.

If you're uncertain about the dosage and schedule, please consult with a doctor for more information.

How Long Does the Rabies Vaccine Last?

For those vaccinated against rabies, a booster shot is recommended one year after the initial series if revisiting high-risk areas. High-risk professionals, like veterinarians and animal handlers, should consider boosters every 6 months to 2 years. Consult your doctor to determine the best schedule for continued protection.

Rabies Vaccine Side Effects

Some people may experience minor side effects such as dizziness, pain or redness at the injection site, and headaches. These reactions are usually mild and temporary, but you should seek medical advice if they persist or worsen.

Uncommon but Severe Reactions to Look Out for After Your Vaccination

In rare cases, vaccinations may trigger severe allergic reactions, such as swelling of the face or eyes, breathing difficulties, or widespread itchy rashes. Should any of these symptoms occur, immediate medical attention is required.

Disclaimer: This is not a comprehensive list of potential side effects. The information provided should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a doctor if you have any concerns before receiving a vaccination.

Rabies Vaccine Cost in Singapore

Vaccination Price*
Rabies Vaccine $263.78/dose

*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

If you're planning to visit regions with a heightened risk of other infectious diseases, consider receiving additional travel vaccinations as well.

For home-based, group, or corporate vaccinations, please contact us for more information.

How Do I Book a Rabies Vaccination Appointment in Singapore?

Book Vaccination Now
Book or Enquire Through WhatsApp At 88933757
Ask Through Email At hello@healthscreening.sg

Why Use Us?

Your vaccination will also be updated to the National Immunisation Registry (NIR) where relevant, this will allow you to keep a record of the vaccinations.

The Importance of Vaccinations

Vaccinations play a vital role in strengthening the immune system, enabling it to more effectively combat specific infectious diseases. By reducing the likelihood of contracting serious illnesses, vaccinations help decrease the need for frequent doctor visits and significantly lower the risk of hospitalisation.

Keeping up with recommended vaccinations allows individuals to lead a healthier lifestyle, confidently engaging in social activities with the assurance that they are protected against contagious diseases.

At healthscreening.sg, we offer a comprehensive range of vaccination options tailored to your health needs, from travel-related to seasonal protection, ensuring your health is thoroughly safeguarded. Your vaccination will be updated in the National Immunisation Registry (NIR) where applicable, allowing you to maintain a record of your immunisations.

Dr Leonard Leng: By staying current with our vaccinations, we not only protect ourselves but also shield our family and loved ones from contagious and serious diseases.
Dr Leonard Leng: By staying current with our vaccinations, we not only protect ourselves but also shield our family and loved ones from contagious and serious diseases.

Travel Clinics in Singapore

ATA Medical is conveniently located at two different locations:

ATA Medical Orchard Clinic with Health Screening Nurses and Staff.
Orchard Clinic
ATA Medical Tanjong Pagar Clinic with Health Screening Nurses and Staff
Tanjong Pagar Clinic
Patient having a health screening review with Dr Jana Lim of ATA Medical.
Post-screening consult with Dr Jana Lim

Navigate Easy With Google Maps

Health Screening Singapore
(Anson House)

Nearest MRT: EW15 Tanjong Pagar

Health Screening Singapore
(Camden Medical Centre)

Nearest MRT: TE13 Orchard Boulevard

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there a rabies vaccine in Singapore?

Yes, the rabies vaccine is available in Singapore at select clinics and hospitals. At healthscreening.sg, we offer the rabies vaccine at $263.78 per dose NETT and inclusive of GST.

Is the rabies vaccine for 1 year or 3 years?

The duration of protection depends on the type of vaccine and exposure risk. For most, a booster is recommended after 1 to 3 years if you are travelling to high-risk areas. High-risk professionals, such as veterinarians and animal handlers, should consider getting boosters every 6 months to 2 years.

Is 3 years too late for the rabies vaccine?

If you were previously vaccinated, you should get a booster within 1 to 3 years, especially if you travel to high-risk areas. High-risk professionals, such as veterinarians and animal handlers, should consider boosters every 6 months to 2 years. Delaying beyond the recommended time frame could reduce immunity.

When was the last rabies case in Singapore?

Singapore has been rabies-free for over 60 years, with the last recorded case in 1953.

Do I need the rabies vaccine if I am already vaccinated?

Yes, if you are at risk, such as travelling to a high-risk area or being exposed to the virus, you may need a booster shot even if you've been previously vaccinated. High-risk professionals, such as veterinarians and animal handlers, should consider boosters every 6 months to 2 years.

What is the price of rabies vaccines?

At healthscreening.sg, we provide the rabies vaccine at $263.78 per dose NETT and inclusive of GST.

Is the rabies vaccine for lifetime?

No, the rabies vaccine does not provide lifetime immunity. Booster shots, depending on your risk, are required to maintain protection.

Is it OK to take the rabies vaccine every year?

Annual boosters may be necessary for individuals at high risk, such as veterinarians or those travelling to at-risk areas, but most people do not need yearly vaccination.

Can the rabies vaccine last 5 years?

Rabies vaccines typically do not last 5 years; boosters are usually recommended every 1 to 3 years, depending on exposure risk, such as travelling to at-risk areas or working in high-risk professions.

Is one shot of rabies enough?

One shot may be sufficient as a booster, but initial vaccination requires a series of doses.

Do rabies vaccines really expire?

Yes, rabies vaccines expire, and expired vaccines should not be used as they may not be effective.

What happens if I miss my second rabies shot?

Missing the second dose can reduce the vaccine's effectiveness. Contact your doctor to reschedule as soon as possible.

Why is there no rabies in Singapore?

Strict animal import regulations, vaccination programs, and public health measures have kept Singapore rabies-free since 1953.

Is rabies vaccine required in Singapore?

The rabies vaccine is not required for the general population in Singapore but is recommended for travellers to at-risk areas and high-risk professionals such as veterinarians.

Is Singapore a rabies-free country?

Yes, Singapore has been considered rabies-free since 1953, thanks to strict animal import regulations, vaccination programs, and public health measures.