After a severe animal bite in Ubud, you need more than just a standard rabies vaccine. For serious wounds, a critical treatment called Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) is required for immediate protection. At Unicare Clinic, we are fully equipped for these high-risk situations, and this guide explains why the availability of RIG is crucial for your safety.
What is Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) and Why is it Essential?
The rabies vaccine and Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) are two different tools that work together as a team. The vaccine is a long-term solution; it trains your body to produce its own antibodies over several weeks for lasting immunity.
RIG is the short-term, immediate solution. It is a dose of ready-made antibodies that provides instant protection directly at the wound site. This “passive immunity” neutralizes the virus immediately, giving the vaccine the crucial time it needs to start working. For severe bites, using both is the required standard for a comprehensive rabies treatment.
When is RIG Necessary? Understanding Category III Exposure
RIG is specifically recommended for what the World Health Organization (WHO) classifies as a Category III exposure. This is the most serious level of contact and includes:
- Any deep bite or scratch that breaks the skin (transdermal).
- Any scratch or bite from a bat.
- Contamination of mucous membranes (such as in the eyes, nose, or mouth) with an animal’s saliva.
- Any bites located on high-risk areas of the body, such as the head, neck, face, and hands, due to their rich nerve supply and proximity to the brain.
If your injury falls into any of these categories, seeking out a clinic with RIG is not just a good idea—it is the standard of care.
The Challenge: Why Finding RIG in Ubud Can Be Difficult
While essential, RIG is a specialized medical product that is not always readily available. Due to its high cost, strict cold-chain storage requirements to maintain its efficacy, and a shorter shelf-life compared to vaccines, many smaller clinics or medical facilities do not keep it in stock. In an emergency, this can lead to dangerous delays as a patient might be sent from one place to another searching for this critical treatment.
The Solution: Unicare Clinic’s Commitment to On-Site RIG Availability
At Unicare Clinic Ubud, we understand that in a medical emergency, there is no time to waste. We have made the commitment to maintain a consistent, on-site stock of high-quality Human Rabies Immunoglobulin (HRIG). This is a key part of our 24/7 emergency service, ensuring that this advanced, life-saving treatment is available the moment you walk through our doors, day or night.
How is RIG Administered at Unicare Clinic?
Administering RIG is a precise medical procedure that requires expertise. At our clinic, the process is handled by trained medical professionals according to the highest international standards.
The dose is carefully calculated based on your body weight. As much of the dose as is physically possible is then infiltrated with a fine needle directly into and around the wound edges. Any remaining RIG is administered via deep intramuscular injection in a site away from the wound.
This ensures the immediate antibodies are concentrated where they are needed most. This level of professional care is what makes us the best choice for rabies vaccines in Ubud.
For Severe Bites, Don’t Compromise on Care
After a severe animal bite, your peace of mind depends on knowing you have received the most comprehensive treatment available. Don’t waste precious time searching or wondering if a clinic has the necessary supplies. Unicare Clinic has the expertise, the facility, and the essential RIG stock ready for your immediate treatment.
SEVERE BITE? GET IMMEDIATE RIG TREATMENT
If you have a deep or severe wound, contact us immediately to ensure you receive comprehensive PEP including Rabies Immunoglobulin.
CALL NOW: +62 822-9829-8911
GET DIRECTIONS: Jl. Raya Pengosekan No.88, Banjar Tegal Kelod, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG)
Is RIG the same as the rabies vaccine?
No, they are different but work together as a team. RIG provides immediate, ready-made antibodies for a rapid first defense at the wound site. The rabies vaccine works by stimulating your own body to create its own long-term protection.
If I get RIG, do I still need the full series of rabies vaccines?
Yes, absolutely. RIG provides a crucial but temporary defense for the first few days. The complete series of rabies vaccines is essential to build your own lasting immunity against the virus.
How do I know if my bite is ‘severe’ enough to need RIG?
According to WHO guidelines, deep wounds, multiple bites, any scratches that draw blood, or any bites on high-risk areas like the face, neck, or hands are considered Category III and require RIG. However, a final determination must be made by a medical doctor after an examination.
Why isn’t RIG available at every clinic in Ubud?
RIG is a specialized and costly biological product that requires strict, continuous cold-chain storage and has a shorter shelf life. For these reasons, many smaller clinics do not stock it. Unicare Clinic maintains an on-site stock as part of our commitment to providing comprehensive emergency care.
How quickly do I need to receive RIG after a severe bite?
RIG should be administered as soon as possible after the exposure. It is most effective when given alongside the first dose of the rabies vaccine. If not given on day 0, it can be administered up to 7 days after the first dose.
Is the RIG injection painful?
The injection is administered with a very fine needle directly into and around the wound. You may feel a stinging or burning sensation, similar to a local anesthetic. Our doctors are highly experienced in making the procedure as comfortable as possible.
Is RIG treatment expensive and is it covered by my travel insurance?
As a specialized biologic product, RIG is significantly more expensive than the vaccine alone. However, since it is a critical part of an emergency medical treatment for a severe injury, the cost is typically covered by most comprehensive travel insurance policies. We provide all necessary documentation for your claim.
What is Human Rabies Immunoglobulin (HRIG) made from, and is it safe?
HRIG is made from the plasma of human donors who have high levels of antibodies against rabies. The plasma undergoes rigorous screening and purification processes to ensure it is safe, sterile, and effective, meeting international safety standards.
Are there any side effects from RIG?
Side effects are generally mild and localized, such as soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection sites. Systemic or serious reactions are very rare. Our medical team will discuss what to expect and monitor you after the administration.
I was vaccinated for rabies years ago. If I get a severe bite now, do I still need RIG?
No. If you have a documented history of completing a full pre- or post-exposure rabies vaccination series, you do not need RIG. According to WHO protocols, you would only require two booster doses of the rabies vaccine.
