Rabies Vaccination in South Shore, Montreal
Rabies vaccination at Clinique Revive is given as planned, pre-exposure protection for travellers heading to regions where rabies is common and for people whose work brings them into contact with animals. Rabies is effectively always fatal once symptoms begin, which is why vaccination before exposure matters for higher-risk groups.
The clinician confirms how many doses you need and the interval between them based on your destination, your work, and your vaccination history. Each dose is documented for your records and for any travel documentation you need.
Pre-exposure protection
Given before any contact, for travellers and for people who work with animals.
Schedule set with you
The number of doses and the spacing between them are confirmed by the clinician at your visit.
Documented for travel
Each dose is recorded, so you have proof for employers, schools, or travel requirements.
When rabies vaccination is appropriate
Pre-exposure vaccination is generally considered for travel to areas where rabies is common, particularly for longer stays, rural travel, cycling or trekking trips, and travel with young children. It is also relevant for veterinarians and veterinary staff, animal handlers, wildlife workers, and laboratory staff who may work with the virus.
If you have already been bitten, scratched, or licked on broken skin by an animal that may carry rabies, treat it as an emergency. Wash the wound with soap and running water for 15 minutes and go to an emergency department, or call Info-Sante 811, right away. Do not wait for a clinic appointment; treatment after an exposure is time-critical.
Vaccination is typically deferred during acute febrile illness.
Preparation for a rabies vaccination
Bring your vaccination record and your travel itinerary, including destinations and dates, so the clinician can confirm the right timing. Pre-exposure courses are usually started well before departure, so book as early as you can.
Mention any previous reactions to vaccines, any condition or medication that affects your immune system, and whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Eat normally beforehand and wear clothing that exposes the upper arm easily.
What to expect after a rabies vaccination
Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site is common and usually settles within a few days. Headache, mild fatigue, muscle aches, or a low-grade fever can occur and are generally short-lived.
The clinician documents the dose, tells you when the next one is due if your course continues, and explains what to do if you are exposed to an animal later. Pre-exposure vaccination simplifies treatment after an exposure but does not replace it: you would still need prompt medical care.
- Health card or ID
- vaccination record
- travel itinerary and dates
- medication list
Registered nurse
15 to 20 minutes
South Shore, Montreal, Kahnawake, Candiac and across the South Shore (Rive-Sud)
Frequently Asked Questions
How far before my trip should I start?
As early as you reasonably can. A pre-exposure course is given over more than one visit, so leaving several weeks before departure gives you the most flexibility. If your trip is sooner, book anyway and the clinician will advise what is still possible.
I have been vaccinated before. Do I need the full course again?
Usually not. Previous pre-exposure vaccination generally means fewer doses are needed later. Bring your record so the clinician can confirm what applies to you.
Does the vaccine mean I can ignore an animal bite?
No. Pre-exposure vaccination reduces and simplifies the treatment you need afterwards, but any possible rabies exposure still requires urgent medical assessment.
Is the vaccine given in the arm?
Yes, it is normally given as an injection into the upper arm muscle. Arm soreness for a day or two afterwards is the most common effect.
Vaccines offered at Revive Clinic
- Tuberculosis skin test and reading$150
- Rabies (1 dose)$300
- Tetanus (Diphtheria & Pertussis)$150
- Hepatitis A&B (Twinrix)$180
- Shingles (Shingrix)$280
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella$150
- Chickenpox (Varicella)$180
- Covid-19$210