There is a severe shortage of rabies vaccines in Switzerland. To ensure that the existing compulsory stocks are sufficient, their use is being severely restricted. Until February 2026, rabies vaccines will only be distributed for vital indications. The focus here is on occupationally exposed persons and persons who have been bitten by an animal. No rabies vaccine from the compulsory stockpile will be available for travel medicine during this period.
Doctors, vaccination centers and hospitals are advised to withhold doses for post-exposure vaccinations. Postpone pre-exposure vaccinations as far as possible until the supply of rabies vaccine has returned to normal. Larger travel clinics could augment the available doses by intradermal vaccination (this requires training in administration and coordinated planning to make good use of a vial). Due to current supply shortages, a pre-exposure booster is not recommended for travelers one year after initial vaccination.