Rabies Vaccine in Singapore



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 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:
|
Furious Rabies (2-7 days) |
As rabies progresses, 70-80% of cases enter the furious phase, marked by neurological symptoms
such as:
|
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:
|
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?
Why Use Us?
Same Day Appointment
Get your vaccinations done quickly at our travel clinics.
Vaccination Proof
Certificates of immunisation will be provided.
Friendly Staff
Customer service is a top priority for us at ATA Medical.
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.


Travel Clinics in Singapore
ATA Medical is conveniently located at two different locations:
- Tanjong Pagar Medical Clinic (Closest MRT: Tanjong Pagar EW15)
- Orchard Clinic (Closest MRT: Orchard Boulevard TE13)
Navigate Easy With Google Maps
Health Screening Singapore
(Anson House)
Health Screening Singapore
(Camden Medical Centre)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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.
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.
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.
Singapore has been rabies-free for over 60 years, with the last recorded case in 1953.
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.
At healthscreening.sg, we provide the rabies vaccine at $263.78 per dose NETT and inclusive of GST.
No, the rabies vaccine does not provide lifetime immunity. Booster shots, depending on your risk, are required to maintain protection.
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.
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.
One shot may be sufficient as a booster, but initial vaccination requires a series of doses.
Yes, rabies vaccines expire, and expired vaccines should not be used as they may not be effective.
Missing the second dose can reduce the vaccine's effectiveness. Contact your doctor to reschedule as soon as possible.
Strict animal import regulations, vaccination programs, and public health measures have kept Singapore rabies-free since 1953.
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.
Yes, Singapore has been considered rabies-free since 1953, thanks to strict animal import regulations, vaccination programs, and public health measures.