Counterfeit Rabies Vaccine Confirmed in India

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has been alerted to the circulation of counterfeit batches of the rabies vaccine Abhayrab® in India.

The counterfeit versions differ from the genuine product in formulation, packaging, labelling, and manufacturing. As a result, individuals who received counterfeit doses may not be fully protected against rabies.

Indian Immunologicals Limited manufactures this vaccine and is not registered or available for use in Australia.

As of December 28, 2026, the ATGI says Australia remains rabies-free, but travellers to endemic areas are at risk if exposed. 

However, Australian travellers or residents who received rabies vaccination in India may have received it as part of pre- or post-exposure prophylaxis.

ATAGI recommends that anyone who received Abhayrab® or any unknown rabies vaccine in India from November 2023 onwards consult their healthcare provider. Replacement doses using an Australian-registered rabies vaccine (such as Rabipur® or Verorab®) may be required to ensure adequate protection.

Healthcare providers are encouraged to review vaccination records for patients who have recently traveled to India and to offer replacement doses where appropriate.

Rabies is a rare but almost invariably fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system. It is transmitted primarily through the bite or scratch of an infected animal and is prevalent in many countries, including India.

For more information, visit the Department of Health website or consult the Australian Immunisation Handbook.

In the United States, each year, 1.4 million Americans receive healthcare for a possible rabies exposure, 100,000 receive post-exposure prophylaxis, and fewer than 10 die from rabies.

In most countries, infected dogs are the source of rabies. However, the U.S. CDC says bats have been the leading carriers of the rabies virus, along with Raccoons, skunks, and foxes.

When departing abroad from the U.S, FDA-approved rabies vaccines are commercailly offered at travel clinics. They are recommended for travelers visiting high-risk areas in 2026, such as Africa, Haiti, and Southeast Asia.