The Health Protection Network (HPN), supported by Health Protection Scotland, has published updated guidance on rabies prophylaxis and management in humans in Scotland.

The guidance was originally issued in 2010 and was well received by colleagues throughout NHS Scotland, many of whom stated they felt colleagues in non-health protection roles, including GPs and frontline hospital staff, would also benefit from access to this guidance. As a result, we would welcome your support in sharing this guidance with your colleagues.

 Updates in the 2013 guidance include:

  • Changes to the supply of Human Rabies Immunoglobulin (HRIG)
  • New table on pre-exposure prophylaxis for travellers
  • Changes to the pets Travel Scheme
  • New link to the updated Green Book Chapter on rabies.

 The guidance offers clear, easy to follow advice on pre and post exposure immunisation as well as administration and financial arrangements for health professionals throughout NHS Scotland.  The guidance is not intended to advise on clinical case management or animal handling, except where the latter affects the management of potential human exposure.

The guidance is attached and is also available at (http://www.hps.scot.nhs.uk/giz/guidelinedetail.aspx?id=46619 )