Geisinger has adequate supply of rabies vaccine, but caution is urged
DANVILLE – Geisinger officials said today that the system has an adequate supply of the rabies vaccine for individuals who have direct contact with animals, in spite of a possible national supply problem.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said last week that the vaccine is in short supply because of production issues that might not be resolved until next year.
The human vaccine treats rabies, a viral disease that impacts the nervous system and is most often caused by bites from sick animals.
Right now, Geisinger expects to have enough vaccine for people who may need treatment once they are exposed to a stray or rabid animal, said Geisinger Director of Clinical Pharmacy Programs Dean Parry, RPh.
However, Geisinger is not offering the vaccine as a preventative measure before they are exposed to the disease.
“People will get a vaccine if they need it,” Parry said. “But until this production issue gets resolved, people need to take extra precaution.”
The CDC recommends:
* Keeping rabies vaccinations current for all cats, ferrets, and dogs;
* Keeping household pets indoors and keeping dogs under direct supervision;
* Calling animal control to remove all stray animals from neighborhoods since these animals may be unvaccinated or ill;
* Contacting your healthcare provider if you’ve been bitten by a stray animal.
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