Information | Right Decisions

This document is for healthcare professionals in NHS Forth Valley involved in the assessment and delivery of rabies post-exposure treatment. It should be used in conjunction with national rabies guidance.

This protocol provides guidance on how to assess patients with possible rabies exposure; where to get advice; who requires treatment; and where rabies postexposure treatments are located.

Potential exposure to Rabies needs prompt assessment & management, including timely administration of rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin.

In the UK

The UK is free of rabies in terrestrial (land) animals.

Bats in the UK may carry Bat Lyssavirus which can cause rabies; all bat bites, scratches and other exposures should be assessed promptly.

Imported pets can also be involved in potential exposures. further details are in the full guidance documents (accessed via the following link: Rabies Guidance (PHS)). Advice can be sought from the on-call public health consultant via switchboard if required.

Outside the UK

Rabies risk in bats and terrestrial animals varies by country.

If the patient sought medical care abroad, they may have received initial post-exposure treatment. After details of treatment have been obtained these patients should be discussed with the relevant on call doctor (Adults: infectious disease / Paediatrics: On call paediatrician), who will determine a treatment plan.