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‍What Is Rabies?
Rabies is a rare but serious viral infection that affects the nervous system. If left untreated before symptoms appear, it can lead to severe brain damage and is almost always fatal. The virus is most commonly transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal.

Symptoms may take several weeks—or even months—to develop following exposure.
The most recent rabies case in British Columbia occurred in 2019, when a 26-year-old man came into contact with a bat on Vancouver Island. He developed symptoms six weeks later and tragically passed away shortly thereafter.
In British Columbia, bats are the only known reservoir of rabies. However, in other parts of Canada, rabies can also be found in skunks, raccoons, and foxes. Since 1924, there have been 24 confirmed cases of rabies in Canada—all of them fatal.
What Are the Symptoms of Rabies?
Symptoms typically develop 3–8 weeks after exposure, but in some cases, may take several months. The incubation period depends on the location and severity of the bite and the amount of virus transmitted.
Early symptoms are often vague and non-specific, and may include:
  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Anxiety or irritability
As the virus spreads to the brain, rabies progresses into one of two clinical forms: encephalitic or paralytic.
Encephalitic rabies is the more common form, occurring in approximately 80% of cases. It causes inflammation and swelling of the brain and presents with the following symptoms:
  • Hallucinations
  • Seizures
  • Confusion
  • Agitation
  • Hydrophobia (fear of water)
  • Aerophobia (fear of drafts or fresh air)
Paralytic rabies, which occurs in about 20% of cases, is characterized by:
  • Muscle weakness
  • Gradual paralysis, typically starting at the site of infection
Did I receive the rabies vaccine as a child?
Rabies vaccination is not part of the routine childhood immunization program in Canada. However, individuals at high risk of being exposed to the rabies virus or rabid animals should consider getting the rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis. These individuals include:
  • Rabies research lab workers
  • Rabies biological product manufacturers
  • Bat biologists
  • Veterinarians and their staff
  • Animal control officers
  • Wildlife workers in areas where rabies is common
Travelers heading to rabies-endemic regions, such as parts of Asia, Africa, Central and South America, should also consider getting vaccinated, particularly if they will be traveling for a month or longer, participating in activities like hiking or trekking, or staying in rural areas far from major medical centers. Residents of northern British Columbia, where bat encounters are more likely, may also wish to consider vaccination.
Is the rabies vaccine covered by MSP?
Currently, rabies pre-exposure vaccination is only covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) for students attending Canadian veterinary colleges or Animal Health Technology Training Center.  
Rabies post-exposure treatment is covered by MSP on a case-by-case basis if deemed medically necessary.  
For those who do not meet the above criteria but still wish to receive protection, rabies pre-exposure vaccination can be obtained for a fee through travel clinics like TravelVax.
The rabies pre-exposure vaccine is administered as a series of three intramuscular injections on days 0, 7, and 21–28. Protection lasts for 3 to 5 years. If you remain at continued risk of exposure, booster doses are recommended when antibody levels fall below 0.5 IU/mL or every 3–5 years.
What do I do if I get bit a bat in BC?
If you come into contact with a bat (including waking up with a bat in the room) or any animal suspected of having rabies, take action immediately. Wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water for 15–20 minutes and contact your local health unit or healthcare provider as soon as possible. Even if you do not see a visible bite or scratch, it’s important to seek medical advice, as the small teeth and claws of bats may leave wounds that are difficult to see!
Rabies may be rare in Canada, but it’s important to stay informed and prepared, especially if you live in areas where bats are common or if you're planning to travel to regions where rabies is more prevalent. While the risks of rabies can be managed with vaccination and prompt medical care, prevention is always the best approach. If you think you’re at risk, consult your healthcare provider about whether the rabies vaccine is right for you. Stay safe, and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you come in contact with wild animals.
For more information or to schedule a vaccination, TravelVax can help!
Rabies Resources and Further Reading
News Article
Parksville man dies from rabies after contact with Island bat
Times Colonist
Government of Canada – Public Health Information
Rabies Surveillance in Canada
Public Health Agency of Canada
Rabies Information for Health Professionals
Public Health Agency of Canada
Rabies Prevention
Public Health Agency of Canada
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) ‍
About Rabies
CDC
BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC)
Rabies Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Guidelines
BCCDC PDF Guide
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