Toronto Rations Rabies Vaccine Amid Provincial Shortage
TORONTO – Toronto Public Health (TPH) has announced measures to conserve its limited rabies vaccine supply as Ontario faces an ongoing shortage.
The health agency instructed doctors on Thursday to ration the remaining stock, prioritizing only high-risk exposures such as direct contact with bats and wild animals. To stretch the supply, TPH will administer only the first two doses of the standard four-dose rabies vaccine series. The remaining doses will be provided once vaccine supplies are replenished.
Two Vaccines in Short Supply
Canada relies on two rabies vaccines, both of which have been affected by shortages in recent months:
RabAvert: Produced by Bavarian Nordic, the shortage began in October 2024 due to increased demand. It is expected to resolve by February 14, 2025.
Imovax Rabies: Manufactured by Sanofi Pasteur, this vaccine has faced delays in shipping since June 2024, with availability anticipated to improve later this month.
The supply issues have prompted Health Canada to monitor the situation closely, noting the shortages on its official drug supply website.
Adapting to Limited Supply
Dr. Howard Shapiro, Toronto’s associate medical officer of health, emphasized the importance of the new guidelines in managing the city’s stock during this critical period.
“These eligibility changes will help extend the city’s stock during a period of very low supply,” Shapiro said in a statement. He added that TPH is actively working with healthcare providers and awaiting updates from the Ontario Ministry of Health regarding vaccine resupply timelines.
However, TPH confirmed that the provincial health ministry has yet to provide a date for the arrival of new shipments.
Understanding Rabies and Its Risks
While rabies is rare in Canada, it poses serious health risks to humans. Infection occurs through contact with an infected animal, typically via bites. Symptoms, which can appear within two to eight weeks, include confusion, breathing difficulties, and seizures. Without treatment, the virus is nearly always fatal.
Public Health Response
The current measures aim to safeguard vaccine availability for those most at risk while minimizing the impact of the shortage. Toronto Public Health continues to coordinate with healthcare providers and monitor the situation to ensure the city’s residents are protected.
Residents concerned about potential exposure to rabies are urged to contact their healthcare provider immediately for evaluation and treatment.
Source : The Canadian Press
