You have probably seen those rabies videos on social media. They are usually disturbing and uncomfortable to watch. However, being informed about the disease is much better so you can protect yourself against it. Learn more about the anti-rabies vaccine price to get started with a course of shots.
Why Is Rabies A Big Problem
The Philippines has one of the most cases of rabies being 6th in the whole world according to a PCHRD report. This means that you or a family member has a greater risk of getting the infection. It can come from various animals but dog and cat bites are the major contributors in the country.
Lockton’s research indicates that 72% of rabies deaths in the country are among males coming from the age group of 20 to 59 years old.
How Serious Is Rabies
Rabies infection has a very grim outcome once the symptoms appear. No one would want to experience the final hours before death for it can be nightmarish to see. WHO mentioned in its fact sheet that the virus is 100% deadly when the symptoms appear.
Do I Need the Injection?
How to tell if I need an anti rabies vaccine? The World Health Organization has an instruction on when to get PEP or post exposure prophylaxis after an animal bite or scratch. Here are the categories:
| Category | Situation | Recommendation |
| Category 1 | Touching or feeding animals, licking or saliva on INTACT skin (no open parts) | Not required |
| Category 2 | Minor scratches and abrasions without bleeding, nibbling of uncovered skin | Vaccine is required |
| Category 3 | Single or multiple actual bite that breaks the skin (with or without blood), scratches, licking of broken skin, exposure to mucus membranes like the eyes or lips | Vaccine is required |
WHO Categories for Anti Rabies Vaccination
We all know the feeling, a simple scratch pumps up our obsession that we will soon get infected. But the more important thing is to realize what type of exposure we have. That’s why it is also important to consult a doctor if you are unsure about your exposure. Dog lovers for example who did not immunize their pets may be at risk for simple scratches. In most cases, stray dogs and cats are the culprit in the rise of rabies incidence.
Is There A Lifetime Anti-Rabies Shot?
If you have completed a pre-exposure prophylaxis (the set of injections recommended by the doctor), the optimum protection duration is 3 months. If you were bitten or scratched within this period, there is no need to restart the vaccination all over again. However, the strength of such immunity will decrease over time. That’s why you need booster shots if you experience another animal bite later on after the 3-month period.
Where Should I Get the Vaccine
No need to worry because you can easily find an Animal Bite Center in your area. These clinics have available vaccines and you may avail them as a walk-in patient. If there is a hospital nearby, you may also ask for a shot at the emergency room.
How Much is Anti Rabies for Human Patients?
The anti rabies vaccine price in the Philippines starts from Php 1,500 to Php 1,900 per shot. See the price list among hospitals to do a comparison especially for more than one injection. Basically, the cost of a vaccine for rabies in humans will depend on the number of shots. The doctor will evaluate your risk and assess whether you need a full course (3-4 shots).
For your reference, here’s the anti rabies vaccine price list among hospitals, pharmacies and diagnostic clinics:
- Southstar Drug – Php 1,909
- Makati Medical Center – Php 2,202
- Juan Medical – Php 2,599
- Conner District Hospital – Php 1,400
If you have a health card, like Maxicare, you may even avail of its anti rabies service at the Primary Care Clinic. The HMO also has a network of partner hospitals that accept cases of animal bites.
Is There a Free Anti Rabies Vaccine?
Good news to all those with budget problems. San Lazaro Hospital offers free anti-rabies vaccination through Philhealth and Malasakit programs. Simply proceed to the hospital and request for an appointment. Be warned not to transact to individuals other than the hospital staff.
What if I Missed an Anti Rabies Shot Schedule?
You may still proceed to the clinic and have the doctor evaluate you. It depends on the number of missed days whether you need to start the course again or simply continue with the next vaccination.
List of Clinics Open 24 Hours
Emergencies happen without warning. If you have been bitten by a dog or cat, you can proceed to any hospital with a 24 hour vaccination. Usually, the vaccine is available in the ER. For example, Cardinal Santos Medical Center and Olivarez General Hospital both have ’round the clock anti rabies vaccination.
- Ortigas Hospital and Healthcare Center
- Providence Hospital
- Medical City Clark
- Davao Regional Medical Center
Other Animals
Can someone get infected from other animals? Rabies in the Philippines are usually caused by dog bites and sometimes cats and even bats. Note that it is not observed or rarely observed to come from rats, mice, monkeys, chickens, snakes, birds and insects.
References:
Rabies-free Philippines, still possible
About the Author: The MedicalPinas team publishes articles to help Filipinos find info on various medical services and their prices.