Rabies was first spotted in the 1920’s but the rabies outbreak in Thailand occurred in the 1980\u2019s. The 1980\u2019s outbreak forced the Thai government to implement robust measures to control rabies cases. These implementations saw that medical equipment throughout the country were strengthened.<\/p>\n Thailand continues to face the threat of rabies today, with an average annual mortality rate around 10 despite improvements since 1980. Recent spikes in rabies deaths in 2018 and high rates of infection in animals, up to 16%, have led to the establishment of 13 ‘rabies red zones’ across the country.<\/p>\n Although the government has vaccinated over 8.39 million dogs and cats nationwide, the persistence of rabies is evident with 121 cases of rabid animals found in 27 provinces in recent years.<\/p>\n Despite global efforts to eradicate human rabies by 2030, it remains a lethal viral disease, particularly prevalent in Thailand, warranting continued vigilance among residents and expatriates in the country.<\/p>\n The cause of rabies in Thailand can be attributed to the low rate of vaccination among cats and dogs. The preference for purchasing farm-bred pets over adopting from shelters leads to over-breeding and a surplus of unvaccinated animals in temples, shelters, and on the streets.<\/p>\n There is also a cultural aspect that contributes to the cause, Thai families often prioritize their livelihoods over pet ownership, resulting in abandonment when pets are not sterilized or no longer serve their original purpose.<\/p>\n With approximately one million stray dogs in Thailand, particularly 300,000 in Bangkok, the country’s adherence to Buddhist principles prohibits mass culling of infected animals, making vaccination the primary solution to combat rabies.<\/p>\n Further read: Understanding Rabies: Types, Causes, and Prevention<\/a><\/p>\n Expats in Thailand can typically find rabies vaccinations at various healthcare facilities, from hospitals, clinics, travel clinics, and even pharmacies. Private healthcare facilities are recommended for expats as they cater to more international patients.<\/p>\n There are two primary types of rabies vaccines in Bangkok<\/strong>, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)<\/strong> and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)<\/strong>. Different facilities will offer different brands of the rabies vaccine, it is crucial that you consult with your doctor to determine the best option for you.<\/p>\n Pre-exposure prophylaxis involves a series of rabies vaccinations administered before potential exposure to the rabies virus<\/strong>. This vaccination is recommended for individuals at high risk of exposure to rabies, such as veterinarians, animal handlers, and frequent travelers to rabies-endemic areas.<\/p>\n Pre-exposure vaccination typically involves a series of three or four doses given over a few weeks.<\/p>\n Post-exposure prophylaxis is a series of rabies vaccinations administered after a person has been exposed to the rabies virus<\/strong>. PEP involves a combination of rabies vaccine and rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) and is crucial to prevent the virus from causing rabies disease.<\/p>\n PEP should be initiated as soon as possible after exposure to a rabid animal.<\/p>\n The average cost of a PrEP rabies vaccine ranges from THB 1,500 to THB 7,000, PEP vaccinations can cost around THB 1,055 – THB 3,500 per dose. The cost of a rabies vaccine in Bangkok will vary depending on factors such as the type of vaccine you are getting, the healthcare provider you visit.<\/p>\n Below is where you can get a rabies vaccine and the costs:<\/p>\n If you are traveling or moving to Bangkok and want rabies covered by your insurance policy, there are a few things you need to look at. For PrEP you will need to look at your preventative care coverage to see if vaccinations are covered, PEP will generally be covered under emergency medical care.<\/p>\n It is crucial that you refer back to your plan\u2019s terms and conditions to check whether rabies vaccines are covered and if there are any limitations such as pre-approval requirements before getting the vaccine to avoid any out-of-pocket costs.<\/p>\n Private health insurance is highly recommended for expats moving to Bangkok. Private policies have more comprehensive coverage and provide expats with the protection they need when staying in Bangkok.<\/p>\n More and more health insurance providers include preventative care coverage in their policies, making it more accessible for expats with a health insurance policy to get vaccinated.<\/p>\n Some of the leading health insurance providers in Thailand include Pacific Cross Thailand, AXA Thailand, Allianz Ayudhya, AIA Thailand, April International, LMG Insurance, and Generali Thailand. These insurers offer a range of plans to suit different healthcare needs and budgets.<\/p>\n Travel Insurance is not required to enter Thailand, however travelers are highly recommended to secure a travel insurance plan to have access to emergency medical coverage during their stay in Bangkok.<\/p>\n For those who are planning on staying in Bangkok for a long duration, it is highly recommended that you get vaccinated for rabies as well as other common illnesses in Thailand<\/a> such as hepatitis B<\/a> and dengue fever<\/a>.<\/p>\n Some of the leading medical insurance providers in Thailand for travelers and expats include AXA Thailand, Allianz Ayudhya, AIA Thailand, Pacific Cross Thailand, Luma, LMG Insurance, April International, Thaivivat, MSIG Thailand, and Generali Thailand.<\/p>\n There are several factors travelers need to consider when selecting the right travel insurance plan. First, it is crucial that you determine your needs. Travel insurance will include emergency medical care coverage but if you plan to participate in extreme sports, you will need to get that covered separately.<\/p>\n Second, consider the premiums and look for plans with flexible payment options. It is important that your policy stay within your budget. Flexible payment options such as copayments and deductibles are effective ways to control your premium costs.<\/p>\n If you are looking for travel insurance to secure your stay in Bangkok, check out our video below on the best travel and expat health insurance companies in Thailand.<\/p>\n![\"Individual](\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.th\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/WP-Banner-revamp-final-20221207_1.-Single-final.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\nRabies Outbreak in Thailand<\/h2>\n
Rabies in Thailand Today<\/h3>\n
Cause of Rabies in Thailand<\/h3>\n
Where Can You Get Rabies Vaccine in Bangkok<\/h2>\n
Types of Rabies Vaccinations Available in Bangkok<\/h2>\n
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)<\/h3>\n
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)<\/h3>\n
Cost of Rabies Vaccine in Bangkok<\/h2>\n
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Getting Rabies Covered in Bangkok<\/h2>\n
Private Health Insurance in Bangkok for Expats<\/h2>\n
Best Health Insurance Providers in Thailand for Expats<\/h3>\n
Travel Insurance for Travelers Visiting Bangkok<\/h2>\n
Best Travel Insurance for Travelers Visiting Bangkok<\/h3>\n