This is a notifiable disease and other public health measures may need to be instituted therefore supplies are strictly controlled.
This information concerns supply only; it is not a guide to clinical decision making.
Rabies post-exposure prophylaxis should be started promptly once the treating clinician determines it is required following an appropriate risk-assessment. It is not necessary for the treating clinician to obtain additional authorisation for supply of post-exposure prophylaxis.
The Public Health Agency (PHA) may provide additional risk assessment advice if the treating clinician requires this (PHA duty room 0300 5550119 / Out of hours Public Health Consultant on call via Ambulance Control).
Human Rabies Immunoglobulin is held by the Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Services (NIBTS). For more information see Rabies Immunoglobulin.
Rabies Human Diploid Cell Vaccine
Trusts
All Trusts should hold Rabies vaccine for immediate patient need, post-exposure. In the first instance sourced from own Trust pharmacy.
If Trusts are unable to obtain rabies vaccine in a timely manner, contact Belfast Trust Royal Victoria Hospital Pharmacy Department or pharmacist on call via switchboard 028 90240503 for advice and support
General Practice
Post-Exposure:
Rabies vaccine required for post-exposure purposes can be written on a HS21 and supplied by community pharmacy for administration in GP practice. Consideration should be given to the urgency of need if using this route.
It is recommended to check stock availability with a community pharmacy before issuing a prescription if vaccination is required urgently. The community pharmacy will be able to advise if in stock, and if not, how long it will take to obtain from a wholesaler.
If the community pharmacy is unable to obtain the vaccine, the local Trust pharmacy may be able to supply. This will depend on the circumstances and urgency, and will require transport arrangements. Contact the local Trust pharmacy department via Trust switchboard.
Pre-Exposure (for info only):
Rabies vaccine for pre-exposure prophylaxis is not held centrally. It may be supplied by community pharmacies via private prescription for travel or occupational reasons (and exceptionally via HS21 prescription for licensed bat handlers with no identified employer).