Rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis schedule (United States 2022 guidelines)^[1]

HDCV: human diploid cell vaccine; PCECV: purified chick embryo cell vaccine; mL: milliliter.

* In adults (ie, age ≥19 years), the deltoid muscle of the arm is the only acceptable intramuscular site of vaccine administration. In children 3 to 18 years old, the deltoid muscle of the arm is preferred, although the anterolateral aspect of the thigh is an acceptable alternative. In children ≤2 years old, the anterolateral aspect of the thigh is preferred; however, in children aged 12 months to 2 years, the deltoid muscle of the arm is an acceptable alternative if the deltoid muscle mass is adequate. Vaccine should never be administered in the gluteal area because this may result in lower antibody titers.

¶ Day 0 is the day the first dose of vaccine is administered.

Δ Boosters are only indicated for individuals in certain risk levels. In some cases, serologic tests for antibody levels should be obtained first to determine whether a booster is indicated. Refer to the UpToDate content for details.