Archive · 3 Jan 2026
Doctors Urge Review of Rabies Shots
Doctors in India are asking people who got rabies shots since November 2023 to check if their vaccine was real.
Some fake vaccines were found, and these might not protect against rabies.
Rabies is a very serious disease that can be deadly.
Experts say if you're not sure about your vaccine, talk to your doctor.
They can check if you need another shot.
The fake vaccines were taken out of use, but it's important to make sure you're safe.
If you got a different, safe vaccine, you don't need to worry.
Health experts advise individuals vaccinated with a specific brand of rabies vaccine since November 2023 to consult doctors due to concerns about a counterfeit vaccine.
The counterfeit vaccine differs in formulation, packaging, and manufacturing standards, potentially leaving individuals unprotected.
Individuals with unknown vaccine brand or batch details should seek medical advice for possible revaccination.
Experts emphasize that revaccination is not required for everyone, especially those who received approved vaccines like Vaxirab-N or Indirab.
Rabies has a variable incubation period, typically ranging from two weeks to three months, and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear.
- Who
- Individuals vaccinated with a specific brand of rabies vaccine since November 2023, especially those with unknown or flagged batch numbers.
- What
- Health experts advise reviewing rabies vaccinations due to concerns about a counterfeit vaccine.
- When
- Since November 2023, with the alert issued on December 19, 2024.
- Where
- India, with the alert originating from Australia’s Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI).
- Why
- To ensure individuals are adequately protected against rabies, as the counterfeit vaccine may not provide sufficient immunity.
- Counterfeit Vaccine Alert
- Suspected fake rabies vaccine circulating in India since November 2023.
- Affected Individuals
- Those who received a specific brand of rabies vaccine, especially with unknown or flagged batch numbers.
- Expert Advice
- Consult doctors to assess the need for revaccination.
- Safe Vaccines
- Vaxirab-N, Rabivax-S, Lyssavac, Vaxirab, or Indirab are confirmed safe.
- Incubation Period
- Typically 2 weeks to 3 months, but can be longer.
- Fatality Rate
- Almost always fatal once symptoms appear.
- Manufacturer's Response
- Acknowledged one case of non-original packaging, cooperated with authorities.