Active immunisation against rabies
For the seroprophylaxis (prevention by injecting antibodies) of rabies in subjects suspected to have been exposed to the rabies virus, particularly in the event of severe exposure e.g.:
-
- Multiple transdermal bites or scratches
- Contamination of mucous membrane with saliva
- Severe bites located on the face, head, neck and hands
… Read more
For the seroprophylaxis (prevention by injecting antibodies) of rabies in subjects suspected to have been exposed to the rabies virus, particularly in the event of severe exposure e.g.:
- Multiple transdermal bites or scratches
- Contamination of mucous membrane with saliva
- Severe bites located on the face, head, neck and hands
- When the domestic or wild animal responsible cannot be examined or is infected or suspected to be infected by the rabies virus
- Bites to young children
Rabies Immunoglobulin provides passive immunization against rabies for prevention of rabies in patients after contact with a rabid animal or an animal presumed to be rabid. Anti rabies serum itself does not constitute an anti-rabies treatment and should always be used in conjunction with rabies vaccine.
Immediate or delayed hypersensitive type reactions may be developed on administration of rabies immune globulin. The observed immediate reactions are hypotension, dyspnoea, and urticaria. Delayed reactions consist of inflammatory reaction, fever, pruritis, rash or urticaria, adenopathy and arthralgia.
The safety of rabies immune globulin when used during pregnancy has not been established in clinical trials in human beings. Considering the lethal risk associated with rabies, pregnancy may not be a contraindication to the administration of rabies immune globulin subsequent to exposure.
Do not administer rabies immunoglobulin intravenously (due to the risk of shock i.e., sudden collapse with drop in blood pressure). Consequently, make sure that the needle has not penetrated a blood vessel. Rabies immunoglobulin should not be administered in repeated doses. Once the vaccine treatment has been started, repeating injections of rabies immunoglobulin may reduce the protective efficacy that must be guaranteed by the vaccine. Shake well before use. Do not shake vigorously.
Vaccines, Anti-sera & Immunoglobulin
If the recommended dosage is not strictly observed, there is a risk of immunosuppressive interference (suppression of immune defenses) with rabies vaccine.
Keep out of the reach and sight of children. Store at 2°C to 8°C. Transportation should also be at 2°C to 8°C. Protect from light. Do not freeze.