Erica Tramuta-Drobnis, VMD, MPH, CPH, addresses the question, “Does scientific evidence support this decision, or is the basis made due to healthcare cost concerns, accessibility, and poor compliance?” in this article.
Rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis recommendations were recently amended by the CDC. They replace the previous three-dose PrEP schedule with a two-dose one.
Five categories now define risk, and these then dictate the degree of vaccination and titer monitoring recommended. Veterinarians and veterinary staff fall into category three as seen in the chart provided in the article.
Source: Veterinary Practice News, January 31, 2023. Link.
If one is concerned about their exposure risk, checking titers routinely or boostering due to concern for waning titers remains appropriate options at any time.”
INSIGHTS: Tramuta-Drobnis’ discussion of the PrEP schedule takes a challenge stance. Yet, she is correct in saying, “We must establish protocols for our staff and work within the cost constraints and insurance requirements of all involved. However, rabies is almost 100 percent deadly, and further research is needed to ensure these recommendations do not have negative consequences.”