How long does immunity from rabies vaccine last?
While 3-year rabies vaccines are recognized in all 50 States, annual or biannual revaccination for rabies is still required by some State municipalities, even though essentially all United Stated Department of Agriculture (USDA) licensed rabies vaccines have a minimum 3-year duration (3).
How long is the rabies vaccine good for humans?
Either a blood test (titer) or a booster dose of rabies vaccine is recommended every 2 years. A titer shows that antibodies to the rabies virus are present and at a certain level the need for the booster is not necessary. If the titer is low or negative, a booster dose is necessary.
Does the rabies vaccine provide lifelong immunity?
There is no single-dose rabies vaccine available anywhere in the world which can provide lifelong immunity. Single-dose vaccines are available, but they only provide immunity for a limited period of time.
Do I need rabies vaccine again?
If you have been vaccinated previously with one of the currently licensed vaccines, you will still need two booster doses of rabies vaccine. The first dose should be given as soon as possible and the second dose three days later. Rabies immunoglobulin should NOT be given.