Well-being - The rabies vaccine will be back in stock shortly.
The Paul-Ehrlich-Institut (PEI) website suggests that the Vaccine against Rabies might become available again soon, as the manufacturer can once more deliver it. This, however, might take some time before reaching clinics and other facilities.
In late March, a delivery shortage for the Rabipur rabies vaccine by Bavarian-Nordic was reported. For instance, at the Tropical Institute of the Munich LMU Clinic, preventive rabies vaccinations are not currently possible, as per their website. However, there are occasionally small amounts available, but they're quickly administered, claims a staff member, adding that one should not rely on delivery dates.
Although there was a reported shortage, vaccines are sometimes still accessible at specific locations. A staff member from the Würzburg Ambulance for Vaccines and Travel Medicine mentioned in early June that people with several hours of travel time frequently approach him. Würzburg is one of the few places where vaccine is still available. Other travelers report traveling without being vaccinated.
Another alternative to Rabipur is the relatively new Verorab vaccine by Sanofi, which is also in short supply according to clinics. PEI states there was a delivery shortage only in February and March. But due to the Rabipur shortage, Sanofi cannot meet the increased demand. "Currently, not all orders for pre-exposure prophylaxis can be met," insisted a Sanofi spokesperson. Rabipur contributes to over 90% of vaccine doses in Germany, as reported by Sanofi.
The Federal Association of German Pharmacy Chains (ABDA) asserts that there have been vaccine issues for years. "This is not a new problem," said a spokesperson. For example, Rabipur was not available from November to February, as per PEI, and another shortage was announced soon after.
The Standing Vaccination Commission (STIKO) advises a preventive rabies vaccination for individuals traveling to regions with a high prevalence of rabies, like Africa and Southeast Asia. Within Germany, it is recommended for individuals with close contact to bats and for individuals working in labs with rabies viruses.
