8 months ago
Australia Warns of Fake Rabies Vaccines in India
Australia has warned that fake rabies vaccines might be sold in India.
These fake vaccines, called Abhayrab, have been around since November 1, 2023.
If you got this vaccine in India, you might not be fully protected against rabies.
Rabies is a very serious disease that can be spread by animal bites, especially from dogs.
If you think you got the fake vaccine, you should see a doctor to get another vaccine that works.
It's also important to be careful around animals when traveling to places where rabies is common.
Always keep good records of your vaccines.
India has a big problem with rabies, and many people get the vaccine there every year.
But sometimes, the vaccines might not be real, which can be very dangerous.
Australia has issued a health alert about counterfeit rabies vaccines (Abhayrab) circulating in India since November 1, 2023.
Travellers who received the Abhayrab vaccine in India may not be fully protected against rabies.
Rabies is a fatal viral disease that attacks the central nervous system, commonly transmitted through animal bites.
Health authorities recommend consulting a healthcare provider for repeat or replacement doses if affected.
Travellers to rabies-endemic countries are advised to seek pre-travel medical advice, avoid animal contact, and maintain detailed vaccine records.
- Who
- Travellers who received the Abhayrab rabies vaccine in India on or after November 1, 2023
- What
- Potential circulation of counterfeit rabies vaccines in India, raising concerns about inadequate protection for travellers
- Where
- India
- When
- Since November 1, 2023
- Why
- Counterfeit vaccines may not provide adequate protection against rabies, a fatal viral disease
Health Authorities
Vaccine Manufacturers
Vaccine Efficacy
Health Authorities
Health authorities emphasize the need for verified vaccines to ensure protection against rabies, highlighting the risks of counterfeit vaccines.
Vaccine Manufacturers
Vaccine manufacturers may argue that their products are safe and effective, and that counterfeit issues are isolated incidents.
Key facts
- Vaccine in Question
- Abhayrab
- Circulation Start Date
- November 1, 2023
- Affected Country
- India
- Rabies Endemic Regions
- India and several other regions worldwide
- Transmission Methods
- Bites, scratches, or contact with saliva from infected animals, primarily dogs
- Risk Assessment
- Individuals vaccinated with Abhayrab in India on or after November 1, 2023
- Recommended Action
- Consult a healthcare provider for repeat or replacement doses
- Prevention Advice
- Seek pre-travel medical advice, avoid animal contact, and maintain vaccine records
- Annual Rabies Deaths in India
- 18,000 to 20,000
- Rabies Vaccine Market in India
- ₹500 crore
Quotes
Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation
Australian advisory body on immunisation.
“People who have received the counterfeit vaccine may not be fully protected against rabies and are recommended to receive replacement doses with a rabies vaccine registered in Australia.”
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