Rabies Vaccine and Travel Vaccines in Bentleigh

If you’re planning an overseas trip, especially to places where diseases like rabies are still a risk, getting the right travel vaccines before you go is one of the smartest things you can do. At Bentleigh Doctors, we offer rabies vaccination and a full range of travel immunisations so you can leave Australia protected and prepared.

What Is Rabies?

Rabies is a very serious viral infection that affects the brain and nerves. Once symptoms appear, it’s almost always fatal. The good news is that rabies can be prevented entirely with the right vaccine, either before or immediately after possible exposure.

In Australia, we don’t have rabies in our land animals, but Australian bats can carry a virus called Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV). It’s closely related to rabies and just as dangerous.

That’s why anyone who gets scratched or bitten by a bat needs immediate medical care — including the rabies vaccine.

Who Should Get the Rabies Vaccine?

You may need the rabies vaccine if:

✈️ You’re travelling to a country where rabies is still common

This includes many countries in Asia, Africa, South America, and Eastern Europe. If you’re going off the beaten path or won’t have quick access to a hospital, it’s especially important.

🧒 You’re travelling with children

Kids are at higher risk because they might play with animals or not tell you if they’ve been bitten or scratched.

🐾 You work with animals or bats

This includes vets, wildlife carers, researchers, and anyone regularly in contact with bats.

🦇 You’ve been scratched or bitten by a bat in Australia

This needs urgent medical attention, even if the wound seems minor.

When Should You Get the Vaccine?

If you’re travelling soon, try to book your travel vaccines at least 4 weeks before your departure date. This gives your body time to build up protection.

The rabies vaccine is given as:

  • Two doses on Day 0 and Day 7 (sometimes a third dose on Day 21 or 28 depending on your needs)

  • If you’re exposed to rabies or ABLV, you may still need extra doses after exposure — even if you’ve been vaccinated before

Is the Rabies Vaccine Safe?

Yes. The rabies vaccine has been used safely for many years and is well tolerated by most people. Some people may get a sore arm or mild fever, but serious side effects are very rare.

Travel Vaccines Available at Bentleigh Doctors

In addition to the rabies vaccine, we offer a full range of travel vaccines, including:

  • Hepatitis A and B

  • Typhoid

  • Yellow Fever

  • Japanese Encephalitis

  • Cholera

  • Tetanus

  • Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) and more

We’ll work with you to create a personalised travel health plan based on your destination, planned activities, and overall health.

Why Choose Bentleigh Doctors?

  • ✅ Experienced travel health GPs

  • ✅ Rabies vaccine available on-site

  • ✅ Fast appointments for urgent travel needs

  • ✅ Helpful advice on avoiding bites and staying safe overseas

If you’re unsure about which vaccines you need, our doctors will guide you through everything.

Book your travel vaccine consultation today with Bentleigh Doctors.
Protect your health before your journey begins.

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