Getting Rabies Vaccine in Bangkok
Getting the rabies vaccine when visiting Bangkok is highly recommended regardless of the duration of your trip. Expats and travelers have multiple options to choose from when getting the rabies vaccine, from hospitals to medical clinics.
Are you planning on traveling or moving to Bangkok? In this article, we will talk about the rabies outbreak in Thailand, the importance of getting the rabies vaccine, where to get the vaccine, the costs involved, as well as health insurance and travel insurance options you have.
Rabies Outbreak in Thailand
Rabies was first spotted in the 1920’s but the rabies outbreak in Thailand occurred in the 1980’s. The 1980’s outbreak forced the Thai government to implement robust measures to control rabies cases. These implementations saw that medical equipment throughout the country were strengthened.
Rabies in Thailand Today
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.
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.
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.
Cause of Rabies in Thailand
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.
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.
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.
Where Can You Get Rabies Vaccine in Bangkok
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.
Types of Rabies Vaccinations Available in Bangkok
There are two primary types of rabies vaccines in Bangkok, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). 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.
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)
Pre-exposure prophylaxis involves a series of rabies vaccinations administered before potential exposure to the rabies virus. 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.
Pre-exposure vaccination typically involves a series of three or four doses given over a few weeks.
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)
Post-exposure prophylaxis is a series of rabies vaccinations administered after a person has been exposed to the rabies virus. PEP involves a combination of rabies vaccine and rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) and is crucial to prevent the virus from causing rabies disease.
PEP should be initiated as soon as possible after exposure to a rabid animal.
Cost of Rabies Vaccine in Bangkok
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.
Below are a few example of where you can get a rabies vaccine and the costs:
- Bangkok Hospital (PrEP) 3,300 Baht 2 dose package
- Wellmed Bangkok Clinic (PrEP) 780 Baht per dose
- Thai Travel Clinic (PrEP) 353 Baht per dose (Doctor fee, hospital fee, vaccine administration fee, and registration fee not included)
Getting Rabies Covered in Bangkok
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.
It is crucial that you refer back to your plan’s 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.
International Health Insurance in Bangkok for Expats
International health Insurances are highly recommended for expats moving to Bangkok. International health insurance policies have more comprehensive coverage and provide expats with the protection they need when staying in Bangkok.
More and more international health insurance providers include preventative care coverage in their policies, making it more accessible for expats with an international health insurance policy to get vaccinated.
Best International Health Insurance Providers in Thailand for Expats
The best international health insurance providers in Thailand include Cigna, Pacific Cross AXA, Aetna International, AIA, Allianz, April International, IMG, Generali, LMG, and Bupa Global. Expats will find some of the most comprehensive coverage and extensive network of providers with these brands.
Travel Insurance for Travelers Visiting Bangkok
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.
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 such as hepatitis B and dengue fever.
Best Travel Insurance for Travelers Visiting Bangkok
The best medical benefit insurance providers for travelers and expats in Thailand include Cigna, VUMI, GeoBlue, AXA, IMG, Luma, LMG, Allianz, April International, AIA, Pacific Cross, Thaivivat, and MSIG.
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.
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.
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.
Conclusion
While there isn’t a rabies outbreak in Thailand per say, it is still a persisting problem even in major expat hubs like Bangkok. As such as expats and travelers, it is crucial that you take proper precaution including taking the rabies PrEP vaccine and securing insurance coverage.
In Bangkok, there are generally two vaccines for rabies, in order to have both options covered by your insurance policy, you need to check your policy details to see if your preventative care coverage includes vaccinations and whether or not the PrEP is covered and emergency medical coverage for the PEP.
If you are planning to visit or move to Bangkok, it is vital that you have the proper insurance coverage. Picking the right insurance plan can be hard, this is where Pacific Prime can help you.
With over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, Pacific Prime Thailand offers comprehensive individual and family health insurance plans. Our experts will help you navigate through the complications and find you the right plan for your needs and your budget.
Contact us today for a free quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the risks of getting rabies in Bangkok?
Travelers and expats in Bangkok risk exposure to the rabies virus as the are large numbers of stray animals that are not vaccinated. In 2018, Thailand categorized 13 “rabies red zones” which indicated high risks of exposure, Eastern Bangkok was among the categorized areas.
Do I need rabies vaccination before visiting Thailand?
Rabies vaccination is not required to visit Thailand but they are highly recommended for expats and long-term travelers due to the risk of exposure to the virus. Expats and long-term visitors can opt to take the Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) to protect themselves from the virus during their stay.
Is rabies covered by health insurance?
Rabies vaccinations may be covered by health insurance but it depends on the policy. The Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis may be covered by policies with robust preventative care coverage. The Post-Exposure Prophylaxis is generally covered under emergency medical care.
Where can I get a rabies vaccine in Bangkok?
Rabies vaccines are available at various healthcare facilities, from hospitals, clinics, travel clinics, and even pharmacies in Bangkok. The cost will vary depending on the brand of vaccine and the healthcare facility.
Born and raised in the cultural melting pot that is Hong Kong, and having studied at an international school, Vista has developed a multicultural perspective that he uses in his writing and strives to connect to people of different backgrounds.
In his free time, Vista enjoys immersing himself in different worlds, from video games to light novels and movies. His hobbies help him expand his writing style by putting himself in the point-of-view of different people and characters.
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