Who needs a rabies vaccine before travelling?

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for travelers to high-risk countries (particularly in Asia, Africa, and Latin America) who plan extended stays, will be in rural or remote areas, are involved in adventure activities like hiking or cycling, or will be working with animals. Children are at higher risk as they are more likely to approach animals and may not report bites.

How many doses is the rabies vaccine and how long does it take?

The pre-exposure rabies vaccine series consists of 3 doses given on days 0, 7, and 21 (or 28). This means you need at least 3–4 weeks before travel to complete the series. It is important to note that even if vaccinated, you still need prompt medical attention if bitten — the vaccine simplifies post-exposure treatment by reducing the number of doses required.

Does the rabies vaccine mean I do not need treatment if bitten?

No. Pre-exposure rabies vaccination does not eliminate the need for medical care after a bite or scratch from a potentially rabid animal. However, it significantly simplifies post-exposure treatment — vaccinated individuals need only 2 booster doses rather than the full post-exposure regimen including rabies immunoglobulin. This is critically important in regions where rabies immunoglobulin may be unavailable.

How much does the rabies vaccine cost in Mississauga?

Rabies vaccine is not covered by OHIP. For current pricing, see our vaccination fees page . Private insurance or employer benefits may cover part of the cost. We provide itemized receipts for insurance claims.

Rabies Vaccine — Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis

Rabies is nearly 100% fatal once symptoms appear. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a critical protection strategy for travelers to areas where rabies is endemic and medical care may be difficult to access. Vaccination before travel simplifies post-exposure treatment and provides peace of mind in remote regions. Available at our Mississauga travel clinic.

Who Should Get the Rabies Vaccine?

Travelers to areas where rabies is common (Asia, Africa, Central and South America)

Adventure travelers (hiking, camping, caving in remote areas)

Animal handlers and wildlife workers

Veterinary professionals and laboratory workers

Cave explorers and spelunkers (bat exposure risk)

Children traveling to endemic regions (higher risk of animal bites)

Long-term travelers in remote areas with limited medical access

Pre-Exposure Vaccination Schedule

3-Dose Series

Day 0 — Initial dose

First injection begins building immune response

Day 7 — Second dose

Booster strengthens antibody response

Day 21 or Day 28 — Final dose

Completes series and establishes long-term protection

Simplified Post-Exposure Treatment

If you're bitten or exposed after vaccination, post-exposure treatment is significantly simplified:

• 2 booster doses instead of 5
• No rabies immunoglobulin needed
• Much faster and less invasive

Timeline to Protection

Immunity begins developing after the first dose but is fully established after completing the 3-dose series. Plan your vaccination at least 3–4 weeks before departure.

Why Get Vaccinated Before Travel?

Rabies Immunoglobulin Availability

Rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) is often unavailable or in short supply in developing countries. Pre-exposure vaccination eliminates the need for RIG post-exposure.

Simpler Post-Exposure Treatment

Without pre-exposure vaccination, post-exposure prophylaxis requires 5 doses over 28 days plus rabies immunoglobulin. With PrEP, only 2 booster doses are needed.

Time to Reach Medical Care

In remote areas, accessing qualified medical care quickly can be impossible. Vaccination before travel provides protection while you arrange evacuation to a facility offering post-exposure treatment.

Special Consideration for Children

Children are at higher risk of animal bites and may not report bites immediately. Pre-exposure vaccination provides critical protection for families traveling to endemic regions.

Pricing & Coverage

For current pricing, see our full vaccination fees page. Most travel vaccines are not covered by OHIP but may be reimbursable through private insurance or employer benefit plans — we provide official receipts for all vaccinations.

Destinations Where Rabies Pre-Exposure Vaccine Is Recommended

Rabies is present in dogs, bats, and wild animals throughout Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for travellers spending extended time in affected regions or engaging in outdoor activities.

Nepal Travel Vaccines India Travel Vaccines Southeast Asia Travel Vaccines Africa Safari Vaccines Adventure Travel Medicine →

Why Peel Travel Clinic?

Mississauga's trusted travel medicine clinic — physician-led, private-pay, no referral needed.

PHAC-Designated Yellow Fever Centre

One of the few clinics in Mississauga authorized to administer the Yellow Fever vaccine and issue the official PHAC vaccination certificate required for international travel.

Physician-Led Consultations

Dr. Saldanha personally reviews your itinerary, health history, and destination risks — so your vaccine plan is specific to your trip, not a generic checklist.

Conveniently Located in Mississauga

Located at 550 Matheson Blvd W, Unit 107 — near Heartland Town Centre, minutes from Hwy 401 and 403. Free on-site parking.

No Referral Required

Book directly by phone. No family doctor referral needed. We see patients from across Mississauga, Brampton, and the Peel Region.

Destination-Specific Travel Advice

Whether you're travelling to India, West Africa, Southeast Asia, or South America — we tailor your vaccines and malaria prevention to your exact itinerary and activities.

Official Receipts for Insurance

Travel vaccines are not covered by OHIP. We provide official receipts so you can submit to private insurance or employer benefit plans for potential reimbursement.

Book Your Rabies Vaccination Series

Schedule your pre-exposure rabies vaccination at Peel Travel Clinic, Mississauga. Book at least 3–4 weeks before travel. No referral needed.

Call (905) 890-2757

Mon–Fri. Private pay. Official receipts provided.

Disclaimer: Vaccine requirements and health recommendations vary by itinerary, medical history, and current health advisories. The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not replace a personalized travel health consultation. Please book an appointment with our physician for advice specific to your trip.