Immunogenicity study of abbreviated rabies preexposure vaccination schedules

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate abbreviated preexposure rabies vaccination schedules that would reduce cost and shorten time required for completion.

Method: A random prospective immunogenicity study, using a group of 96 volunteer preclinical veterinary students, primary school children, and hospital-based health care workers. They were divided into six groups and administered abbreviated schedules of preexposure tissue culture rabies vaccines. Neutralizing antibodies were determined on days 0 and 360, and following boosters on days 367 and 374.

Results: All subjects, including one group that received only 0.1 mL intradermally at two sites on one day, had detectable neutralizing antibody titers 1 year later and responded with an accelerated antibody response when given booster injections.

Conclusion: It might be possible to develop a 1-week and even one clinic visit preexposure vaccine schedule that would provide at least 1 year of immune memory.