A rabies vaccine is an important protection against the rabies virus. Rabies is nearly 100% fatal once symptoms start, so getting vaccinated after exposure is critical. Like any vaccine, side effects can occur after getting a rabies shot. Being aware of common side effects can help ensure proper medical care is received if needed. Monitoring the injection site and being alert to systemic symptoms is important in the days and weeks after vaccination.
What is rabies?
Rabies is a viral disease transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. It attacks the central nervous system and causes encephalitis, which leads to death if untreated. Rabies can be spread through bites, scratches, or contact with mucous membranes from an infected animal. In the U.S., rabies is most commonly found in bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes. Dogs and cats can also get infected if not vaccinated.
Once someone is exposed to rabies, the virus spreads through nerves to the brain. It has a long incubation period, usually 1-3 months. There are two types of rabies vaccines used before or after exposure. The post-exposure vaccine is critical in preventing the disease if given soon after contact with an infected animal.
Why get vaccinated after exposure?
The rabies vaccine works by stimulating the body’s immune response against the rabies virus. When given after an exposure, it prevents the virus from infecting the nerves and traveling to the brain where it is fatal. The vaccine is highly effective if given within the appropriate timeframe.
Along with the vaccine, rabies immune globulin is given to provide immediate antibodies until the vaccine starts working. The vaccine is given in a series of 4 doses over 14 days. The exact schedule depends on whether the person was previously vaccinated against rabies. Prompt vaccination after exposure is essential to prevent the disease.
What to look for after the first shot
Local reactions at injection site
Some pain, redness, and swelling can occur around the injection site after the first rabies vaccine. These local reactions are normal as the immune system responds to the vaccine. They should go away within a few days. Signs to look for include:
- Pain or tenderness at injection site
- Redness and swelling around injection site, up to about 2 inches
- Bruising at injection site
Applying a clean, cool compress to the site can provide relief for soreness. Over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen can also help. Local reactions generally do not require medical treatment. However, call your doctor if the reactions seem severe or do not improve after a few days.
Low-grade fever, headache, fatigue
Some people may develop flu-like symptoms after getting the first rabies vaccine. A low-grade fever of less than 102°F, headache, and fatigue are possible. Muscle aches and joint pain can also occur. These systemic reactions are a sign the vaccine is triggering an immune response. They should go away within 1-2 days. Treat symptoms with rest, fluid, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Call your doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.
Allergic reactions
Serious allergic reactions are rare after rabies vaccines. But signs of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction, should be monitored for. Seek emergency medical care if any of the following develop:
- Hives or rash over body
- Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
- Rapid heart rate
- Dizziness, weakness, confusion
These symptoms likely mean an allergy to a component of the vaccine. Your doctor can provide treatments to manage the reaction and advise if additional doses are safe for you.
What to expect after subsequent vaccine doses
The rabies vaccine is given in a 4 dose schedule over 14 days. After the initial shot, it’s important to stay on schedule and get the remaining doses to complete the series for full protection. Here’s what to expect with the later shots:
Fewer reactions after subsequent doses
Reactions tend to lessen with each additional vaccine dose. So the 1st shot often causes the most symptoms like soreness, fever, or fatigue. Later doses are less likely to trigger these immune responses. However, if local reactions seem to worsen or systemic effects develop after subsequent doses, contact your doctor.
Complete vaccine series as advised
Be sure to follow recommendations for timing of the later vaccine doses, typically given on days 3, 7, and 14 after the 1st shot. Complete the full 4 dose series according to the schedule for optimal immune protection against rabies. Missing doses or delaying the series puts you at greater risk if exposed to the rabies virus.
Booster shots may be needed
Depending on your risk of exposure to rabies in the future, booster vaccine doses may be advised after the post-exposure series is finished. People at continued high risk, like veterinarians and animal control workers, need routine boosters. For the general public, periodic boosters may be recommended if living in areas with significant rabies activity. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice on booster shots to stay adequately protected.
When to call the doctor
In most cases, side effects after rabies vaccination are mild and resolve in a few days. But call your doctor if you have:
- High fever over 102°F
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Difficulty moving an arm or leg
- Tingling or weakness in arms or legs
- Confusion, balance issues, or seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives or swelling over large areas of the body
These could potentially indicate more serious reactions that may need medical treatment. Nervous system side effects like numbness, unsteady gait, and limb paralysis are very rare but require prompt medical care.
Ongoing precautions after vaccination
A few precautions can help prevent rabies infection in the weeks after vaccination:
- Avoid contact with wild mammals like bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes. Report any exposures to animal control.
- Keep pets away from wildlife and do not handle stray animals.
- Make sure pets have current rabies vaccinations.
- Tell your doctor about any animal scratches, bites, or other exposures so you can receive preventive treatment if needed.
- Follow wound care instructions if you were exposed to provide the best protection.
Though rare, rabies infection is still possible shortly after vaccination if exposed again. Avoidance of possibly rabid animals reduces this risk.
Summary of what to look for after the rabies vaccine
| Timeframe | Normal reactions | Potential serious reactions |
|---|---|---|
| First 1-2 days | Soreness, redness, swelling at injection site | Hives, wheezing, trouble breathing – signs of allergic reaction |
| First 5 days | Low fever, headache, fatigue, body aches | Severe fever over 102°F, confusion |
| After day 5 | Localized reactions improve | Arm or leg numbness, weakness or paralysis |
| After full series | Future routine boosters may be needed | Unusual bleeding or bruising could indicate immune disorder |
The rabies vaccine provides crucial protection after an exposure to the virus. While most side effects are mild and temporary, it’s important to monitor for potentially serious reactions that need medical care. Stay in touch with your healthcare provider throughout the vaccination series. Follow their guidance on completing the vaccine doses as well as future booster recommendations. Prompt reporting of any concerning reactions can help ensure appropriate treatment.
Conclusion
Getting vaccinated against rabies after an exposure is vital to prevent this fatal viral infection. Mild soreness, redness, or low-grade fever are common in the days after the initial shot as the immune system responds. Though serious allergic reactions are rare, look for symptoms like facial swelling, difficulty breathing, and hives that require emergency care. Stay on schedule to complete the 4 dose vaccine series for full protection. Avoid wild animals during the vaccination period and make sure pets are vaccinated too. Call your doctor if you have severe local or systemic reactions for evaluation and treatment. With proper precautions and monitoring, the rabies vaccine is highly effective at preventing disease after exposure to this deadly virus.