14 September 2012

Supply of rabies vaccine in the UK

Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics are currently out of stock of purified chick embryo cell (PCEC) rabies vaccine (Rabipur®). Novartis expect further supplies of Rabipur® to be available in mid October 2012.  

Sanofi Pasteur MSD (SPMSD) is experiencing an increased demand for human diploid cell rabies vaccine (HDCV – Rabies vaccine BP) and supply may be interrupted temporarily.

All enquiries regarding rabies vaccine supply should be directed to the appropriate vaccine manufacturer:

Rabies Vaccine BP (HDCV): SPMSD Customer Services  on 0800 0855511

Rabipur®: Novartis medical information on 08457451500

Information on the risk of rabies in specific countries is available on the NaTHNaC Country Information Pages.

Travellers Advice

Travellers needing rabies vaccine prior to travel should seek advice from their local travel health provider or specialist centre. If vaccine is not available, consider obtaining rabies vaccine, if available, from a travel health clinic at the destination. Travel clinics overseas are listed by the International Society of Travel Medicine: ISTM member clinics.

All travellers with a potential rabies exposure whilst overseas should be promptly evaluated and receive post exposure vaccine as appropriate.

Expert advice is available from:

Health Protection Agency Virus Reference Department – 020 8200 4400

Health Protection Agency Centre for Infection - 020 82006868

Health Protection Scotland – 0141 300 1100

National Public Health Service (Virology Cardiff) for Wales - 02920747747

Public Health Laboratory Service, Belfast City Hospital – 0289032 9241

Links

NaTHNaC Health Information Sheet: rabies

NaTHNaC Traveller Information Sheet: rabies

Health Protection Agency: rabies

NaTHNaC Country Information Pages