Short answer
Wash the wound straight away with soap and water for at least 15 minutes, then get to a hospital or health post the same day for the anti-rabies vaccine. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms start, but the vaccine prevents it if you get it in time. Government hospitals give it free, and Shukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital in Teku is the main centre in Kathmandu. Supplies ran short across Nepal in mid-2026, so call before you go and finish every dose.
The details
Right after a bite
- Wash the wound with soap and water for at least 15 minutes, as WHO advises.
- Go to a hospital the same day for the anti-rabies vaccine.
- Call ahead to check the hospital has vaccine in stock.
- Finish every dose on the dates you're given.
Common problems
It was only a scratch.
WHO says anyone bitten or scratched by an animal that could have rabies should wash the wound and get medical attention. Most human rabies comes from dog bites and scratches. Let the health worker decide whether you need the vaccine.
How many doses do I need?
Nepal's current schedule given into the muscle is four doses over two weeks, and Teku hospital stresses completing all four on time. Some private clinics still use an older five-dose schedule. Follow what your hospital gives you.
The government hospital has no vaccine.
In June 2026 several government facilities ran out while a purchase was delayed. Ask the hospital where stock is available. Private pharmacies sell it, reported at around Rs 1,000 a dose.
Is it too late if I waited a day?
Get the vaccine as soon as you can. Sooner is better, but there's no strict 24-hour cut-off.
Real experiences
Been through this recently? Tell the next person which office you went to and what they asked for. Reports are published as community notes, apart from the official information.
Share your experienceSources
- WHO: rabies fact sheetwho.int
- The Himalayan Times: Teku Hospital has 40-day rabies vaccine reserve (June 2026)thehimalayantimes.com
- Kantipur: nationwide rabies vaccine shortage (June 2026)ekantipur.com
- Kantipur: why the government needs to act on rabies vaccination (June 2026)ekantipur.com
- Shukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospitalstidh.gov.np
Written from the sources above and last checked on 8 Oct 2026. Some details aren't confirmed against an official page yet, so check fees and documents with the office before you go.
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