Rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) in Queensland
For Bat or Animal Bites/Scratches – Brisbane Area
If you’ve been bitten or scratched by a bat or animal, it’s essential to begin post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) immediately. Rabies and Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV) are almost always fatal once symptoms begin—but 100% preventable if PEP is started promptly and properly.
Step 1: Go to a Hospital for Day 0 PEP
If you’ve never been vaccinated for rabies, you’ll need:
- Human Rabies Immunoglobulin (HRIG) — Only available and administered at hospitals.
- First dose of the rabies vaccine — Given on Day 0.
Hospitals in Brisbane that provide Day 0 PEP:
The Prince Charles Hospital (TPCH)
- Location: Rode Road, Chermside QLD 4032
- Emergency Department: Open 24/7
QEII Jubilee Hospital
- Location: Kessels Rd & Troughton Rd, Coopers Plains QLD 4108
- Emergency Department: Open 24/7
Important: HRIG must be administered at the hospital on Day 0 and is not available at GP clinics.
Step 2: Continue PEP at a GP – Skyarch Medical Clinic Brisbane
After Day 0 treatment at the hospital, you’ll need to complete the vaccine series on:
- Day 3
- Day 7
- Day 14
You can (and should) nominate your GP to continue your care. One recommended clinic in Brisbane is:
Skyarch Medical Clinic Brisbane
- Specialist in continuing rabies PEP
- Accepts hospital referrals for Day 3, 7, and 14 rabies vaccines
- Offers timely follow-up care to ensure the PEP course is completed successfully
What to Do:
- Inform the hospital during your Day 0 visit that you’d like to nominate Skyarch Medical Clinic Brisbane for follow-up care.
- Book your appointments in advance at Skyarch to ensure availability on exact schedule days.
Summary of the Rabies PEP Process in QLD
| Step | Action | Where |
| Day 0 | HRIG + first rabies vaccine dose | Hospital ED (e.g., TPCH, QEII) |
| Day 3 | Rabies vaccine dose | Skyarch Medical Clinic Brisbane or GP |
| Day 7 | Rabies vaccine dose | Skyarch Medical Clinic Brisbane or GP |
| Day 14 | Final vaccine dose | Skyarch Medical Clinic Brisbane or GP |
PRE-EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS (PrEP) – For High-Risk Groups
Pre-Exposure Rabies Vaccination (PrEP) is recommended for people with a higher risk of rabies exposure.
Who Should Get PrEP?
- Wildlife workers, bat handlers
- Veterinarians and animal shelter staff
- Travelers to rabies-endemic countries
- Students or researchers in contact with animals
PrEP Vaccine Schedule:
- 3 doses: Day 0, Day 7, and Day 21–28
- After PrEP, if exposed: only 2 booster doses are needed (Day 0 & Day 3) — no HRIG required.
Important Note:
PrEP vaccines must be purchased by the patient.
They are not free or government-supplied for pre-exposure use.
Costs vary — contact pharmacies for current pricing.
Skyarch Medical Clinic Brisbane – PEP & PrEP Services
- Offers Day 3/7/14 PEP follow-up vaccinations
- Provides full PrEP courses
- Experienced, multilingual staff
- Brisbane location easily accessible by public transport
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