Rabies Vaccination Protocols: Navigating International Requirements

Q: Rabies Vaccination Protocols: Navigating International Requirements

Dear readers, <br>Here are the responses：<br>1. <br>Will the effectiveness of vaccination be affected due to the differences in vaccines used in different locations and the varying intervals between doses? <br> A： Generally, it will not; Taiwan's vaccination schedule consists o

Rabies vaccination for prevention?

Hello, Doctor.
My niece (a U.S.
citizen) will be returning to the U.S.
after working in Japan for a year to pursue a degree in veterinary medicine this summer.
Recently, she received a notification from her school stating that she must complete the rabies vaccination series by the end of May.
However, the vaccination schedule in Japan is different from that in Taiwan and the U.S.
In Taiwan, the schedule is Day 0/7/21 (28), while in Japan it is Day 0/1 month/6 months.
Therefore, she is unable to meet the school's deadline while in Japan.
She would like to know if she can receive the first two doses in Japan and then get the third dose in Taiwan.
Additionally, I have a few questions for you:
1.
Will this vaccination approach cause any issues with efficacy due to the differences in vaccines and the intervals between doses in the two countries?
2.
Can foreign nationals receive rabies vaccinations at their own expense in Taiwan?
3.
Can a Taiwanese hospital issue a vaccination certificate (preferably in English) if they only administer the final dose?
4.
Generally, is it necessary to make an appointment at the hospital in advance, or can one simply register on the day of the visit to receive the vaccination?
Thank you very much for your assistance with these questions!

Wu Jianliang, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/03/29

Dr. Liao Zhongxin reply Internal Medicine

Dear readers,
Here are the responses:
1.
Will the effectiveness of vaccination be affected due to the differences in vaccines used in different locations and the varying intervals between doses?
A: Generally, it will not; Taiwan's vaccination schedule consists of five doses administered on days 0, 3, 7, 14, and 28.
2.
Can foreign nationals receive rabies vaccinations in Taiwan at their own expense?
A: Of course, they can.
3.
Can hospitals in Taiwan issue a vaccination certificate (preferably in English) if only the last dose is received?
A: They can only indicate that the vaccine has been administered, and it can be accompanied by English proof of the other two doses.
4.
In general, is it necessary to make an appointment at the hospital in advance, or can one simply register on the day of the visit to receive the vaccination?
A: As long as time permits, registration for vaccination can be done on the same day.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2018/03/29

More Info

When it comes to rabies vaccination protocols, especially in the context of international travel and varying vaccination schedules, it is crucial to understand the implications of receiving vaccinations in different countries. Your niece's situation, where she needs to complete her rabies vaccination series before returning to the United States for veterinary studies, raises several important questions.

1. Effectiveness of Mixed Vaccination Schedules: It is generally recommended to complete the rabies vaccination series with the same vaccine type whenever possible. However, if your niece receives the first two doses in Japan and the third dose in Taiwan, it should still be effective. The rabies vaccines used in different countries, such as those from Sanofi Pasteur (Verorab) and Novartis (Rabipur), have been shown to be immunologically similar. The key is to ensure that the vaccines are WHO-approved and that the vaccination schedule is adhered to as closely as possible. The primary concern would be the timing of the doses; therefore, it is essential to follow the recommended intervals for the series she starts in Japan and completes in Taiwan.

2. Eligibility for Vaccination in Taiwan: Foreign nationals can receive rabies vaccinations in Taiwan, typically at their own expense. Many hospitals and clinics offer vaccination services to expatriates and tourists. It is advisable to contact the healthcare facility in advance to confirm their policies regarding foreign patients and the availability of the rabies vaccine.

3. Issuance of Vaccination Certificates: Hospitals in Taiwan can issue vaccination certificates, including those in English, but this may depend on the specific facility's policies. It is best to inquire directly with the hospital where the vaccination will be administered. When making the appointment or during the visit, your niece should explicitly request an English vaccination certificate to ensure that it meets her school’s requirements.

4. Appointment Requirements: Generally, it is advisable to make an appointment for vaccinations, especially for specific vaccines like rabies, which may not be as readily available as routine immunizations. However, some clinics may allow walk-ins. It is best to check with the specific healthcare provider regarding their policies on appointments and walk-in vaccinations.

In summary, your niece can start her rabies vaccination in Japan and complete it in Taiwan, but she should ensure that the vaccines are compatible and that she adheres to the recommended schedule. It is also essential to communicate with healthcare providers in both countries to facilitate a smooth vaccination process and obtain the necessary documentation for her studies. Given the importance of rabies vaccination for her future career in veterinary medicine, it is crucial to prioritize this health requirement and ensure that all vaccinations are completed on time.

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