Rabies Vaccination
£120 per dose · Same-week appointments available · Open 7 days
About the Rabies Vaccination
Rabies is a viral zoonotic disease that, once clinical symptoms develop, is almost invariably fatal. The virus is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal — most commonly through a bite, scratch, or lick to broken skin. Dogs are responsible for the majority of human cases globally, though bats, monkeys, foxes, and other mammals can also transmit the virus. Over 59,000 people die from rabies each year, predominantly in Africa and Asia.
Pre-exposure vaccination does not provide complete protection against rabies but critically alters the post-exposure treatment required. Vaccinated individuals who are bitten or scratched still require prompt post-exposure treatment, but the urgency is reduced and they do not require rabies immunoglobulin — which is expensive, scarce, and often unavailable in the countries where rabies is most prevalent.
Who should have this vaccination?
- Travellers to rabies-endemic countries, particularly those visiting rural areas, trekking, cycling, or engaging in activities with increased animal contact
- Backpackers and long-term travellers where access to post-exposure treatment may be limited or delayed
- Veterinarians, animal handlers, and wildlife workers
- Bat handlers and cave explorers
- Children travelling to endemic areas — children are at increased risk due to closer contact with animals and may not report bites promptly
- Those spending more than one month in rabies-endemic regions
Vaccination schedule
The pre-exposure rabies vaccination course consists of three doses, administered on days 0, 7, and 21 or 28. All three doses should be completed before potential exposure. Boosters are recommended for those with ongoing risk, with the timing determined by antibody titres for laboratory and veterinary workers, or after two to five years for travellers. Our clinical team will advise on the appropriate schedule and whether boosters are indicated based on your travel plans and risk profile.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Rabies vaccine cost at The Vesey?
The Rabies vaccine is available at The Vesey Private Hospital from £120 per dose. Book online or call 0121 387 3727.
Do I need an appointment for vaccinations at The Vesey?
Yes, we recommend booking in advance to ensure availability. Same-week appointments are usually available. Book online or call 0121 387 3727. We are open 7 days a week including Sundays.
Is the Rabies vaccine available on Sundays in Sutton Coldfield?
Yes. The Vesey is open every day of the week including Sundays from 8am to 8pm — the only private clinic in Sutton Coldfield with 7-day access for vaccinations.
Which countries carry a significant risk of rabies?
Rabies is present in over 150 countries. High-risk destinations include India, Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Bali, Philippines), sub-Saharan Africa, Central and South America, and parts of Eastern Europe. Risk is highest in areas with significant dog populations and limited access to post-exposure treatment.
What is the difference between pre-exposure and post-exposure rabies vaccination?
Pre-exposure vaccination (3 doses before travel) primes the immune system so that after any animal bite, only 2 further doses are needed — without the need for rabies immunoglobulin (RIG), which may be unavailable in many countries. Post-exposure prophylaxis without pre-exposure vaccination requires RIG plus 4–5 vaccine doses.
What should I do if I am bitten by an animal abroad?
Immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes, then apply an antiseptic. Seek medical attention urgently — do not wait until you return to the UK. Contact The Vesey or your travel health provider as soon as possible. Pre-exposure vaccination buys valuable time to access treatment.
How long does pre-exposure rabies vaccine protection last?
A 3-dose primary course gives a good immunological memory that persists for many years. Travellers with ongoing risk should have a titre check every 3–5 years; a booster is given only if antibody levels are found to be low. A previous pre-exposure course significantly simplifies post-exposure management.
Live availability — book directly below
Open 7 days · 8am–8pm · Unit 3, The Courtyard, Sutton Coldfield B75 7BU · Free parking · CQC-regulated
Getting the Rabies Vaccination at The Vesey
The Vesey Private Hospital in Sutton Coldfield provides the Rabies Vaccination without the delays associated with NHS appointment backlogs. Same-week appointments are frequently available, and no GP referral is required — you can book directly online or by calling 0121 387 3727.
Why vaccinate privately at The Vesey?
- Same-week availability — appointments typically available within days, not weeks
- Open 7 days including Sundays — 8am to 8pm with no weekend surcharge
- No GP referral needed — book directly online or by calling 0121 387 3727
- Expert travel health advice — our clinical team provides destination-specific vaccination schedules and travel health guidance
- CQC-regulated — rated 4.87 out of 5 from 700+ independently verified Doctify reviews
- Free on-site parking — immediately outside the clinic, serving Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, Walsall, Tamworth, and the wider West Midlands
Corporate vaccination programmes
The Vesey offers workplace vaccination programmes for businesses across the West Midlands. On-site vaccination clinics can be arranged for groups of any size. Contact corporate@thevesey.co.uk or call 0121 387 3727 for further information and a quote.
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Book your Rabies Vaccination
The Vesey · Sutton Coldfield · Open 7 days 8am–8pm · £120 per dose