You’ve taken the most important step by getting your rabies vaccination at Unicare Clinic. Now, it’s perfectly normal to have questions about what comes next. This guide will walk you through what to expect after your shot—from common, mild side effects to simple aftercare tips—to ensure your recovery is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Common and Normal Side Effects of the Rabies Vaccine
Experiencing mild side effects is a normal sign that your body is building protection and your immune system is responding correctly to the vaccine. The most common reactions are typically mild and resolve on their own within a day or two.
You may experience:
- Pain, redness, or swelling directly at the injection site (a sore arm)
- A mild headache or a feeling of dizziness
- General muscle aches or a feeling of fatigue
These reactions are common with many types of vaccines, and as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains, they are a standard part of the immune-building process.
Simple At-Home Aftercare Tips
You can easily manage most of these mild side effects at your hotel or villa with these simple tips:
- For a Sore Arm: Applying a clean, cool compress to the area for 15-20 minutes can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Gently moving your arm throughout the day can also help ease stiffness.
- For Mild Discomfort: If you are feeling achy or have a headache, simple over-the-counter pain relief like Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) is generally safe. Always follow the package dosage instructions.
- Stay Hydrated and Rest: Drinking plenty of water and allowing your body to rest for the remainder of the day can help you feel better faster.
Activities: What to Do and What to Avoid for 24-48 Hours
It’s important to give your body a little time to adjust after the vaccine. We recommend the following for the first day or two:
- Alcohol: It’s best to avoid or limit alcoholic beverages. Alcohol can cause dehydration and may worsen any feelings of fatigue or headache.
- Strenuous Exercise: Give your body a break from heavy exercise like surfing, gym workouts, or intense yoga. Light activity, such as walking, is perfectly fine.
- Swimming: To prevent any skin infection at the small injection site, we recommend waiting 24 hours before swimming in a pool or the ocean.
When to Contact a Doctor: Watching for Rare Side Effects
While serious side effects are very rare, it’s important to know what to look for. Please contact us immediately if you experience any of the following:
- A high fever (over 38.5°C or 101.3°F)
- A rash or hives spreading across your body
- Swelling of the face or throat
- Any difficulty breathing
Our 24/7 hotline at +62 822-9829-8911 is always available for urgent medical concerns.
Don’t Forget Your Next Appointment!
The rabies vaccine series works as a team, with each dose building upon the last. Adhering to your follow-up schedule is critical to ensure you are fully protected. Please refer to the vaccination card our team provided and come in for your next scheduled shot. Completing the full rabies vaccination course is the most important part of your aftercare.
Your Health is Our Continued Priority
Experiencing mild side effects after receiving a high-quality vaccine likeVerorab® is a normal part of the process. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure a comfortable recovery. Remember, our team at Unicare Clinic Ubud is here to support you throughout your entire vaccination journey.
QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR VACCINATION? WE’RE HERE TO HELP.
If you are experiencing any concerning symptoms or have questions about your aftercare, please do not hesitate to call our 24/7 hotline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Post-Vaccination Care
How long will my arm be sore after the rabies shot?
A sore arm is the most common side effect and typically lasts for 24 to 48 hours. Applying a cool compress to the area for 15-20 minutes at a time can help reduce discomfort and swelling
Is it normal to feel tired or have a slight fever after the vaccine?
Yes, it is quite normal to feel mildly fatigued, have some muscle aches, or run a low-grade fever for a day or two after the shot. This is a positive sign that your immune system is learning to build protection.
Can I drink alcohol, like a Bintang or a cocktail, after my vaccination?
We generally recommend avoiding or limiting alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours after your vaccination. Alcohol can contribute to dehydration, which may worsen mild side effects like a headache or fatigue.
Is it safe to go swimming in a pool or the ocean after my shot?
It is best to wait at least 24 hours before swimming. This allows the small puncture site from the injection to fully close, which helps to prevent any potential skin infections.
What about strenuous exercise like surfing, yoga, or going to the gym?
We recommend avoiding strenuous exercise, particularly activities that heavily use the arm you were injected in (like surfing or lifting weights), for a day or two. Light activities like walking are perfectly fine.
Is it okay to get a Balinese massage after the injection?
We advise waiting at least 48 hours before getting a massage. You should especially avoid any deep tissue massage directly on or near the injection site while it is still tender.
What are the signs of a rare allergic reaction that I should watch for?
Severe allergic reactions are very rare. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms like a rash or hives spreading across your body, swelling of the face or throat, or any difficulty breathing.
I have a small, hard lump at the injection site. Should I be worried?
A small, hard, and sometimes tender lump at the injection site can be a normal local reaction. It is your body’s immune system working at the site and should resolve on its own within a week or two. If it becomes very large, red, or increasingly painful, please contact us.
Will the side effects get worse with the second, third, and fourth doses?
Not necessarily. Every person’s immune response is different. Some people find the side effects are the same for each dose, while others may feel them more or less with subsequent shots. There is no set rule.
What is the best over-the-counter painkiller to take for a sore arm?
Simple painkillers like Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) are generally a safe and effective choice for managing mild pain or fever after your vaccine. Always follow the dosage instructions on the package and consult with our doctor if you have other health conditions.
