Rabies: Human Rabies Immunoglobulin (HRIG)
Updated 20 February 2024
Applies to England
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Human Rabies Immunoglobulin (HRIG)
Dispensed in vials with potency depending on specific batch.
More information about the potency can be found at Rabies post-exposure treatment: management guidelines
Indications:
For treatment of individuals following potential rabies exposure. A risk assessment using guidance from the rabies post exposure: management guidelines should be carried out.
Dosage
20IU/kg body weight.
Immunoglobulin must be infiltrated around the bite site where possible. Only excess immunoglobulin which cannot be infiltrated at the site should be given by intramuscular injection.
Administration of RIG
RIG needs to be infiltrated into the depth of the wound and around the site of the wound. Only excess immunoglobulin which cannot be infiltrated at the site should be given by intramuscular (IM) injection. Where more than 2ml IM is to be given to young children or more than 5ml IM to older children and adults the immunoglobulin should be divided and given at different sites.
Vaccine and RIG must never be given at the same anatomical site, but can be given on the same day. RIG is not given seven days after the first dose of vaccine, after the second dose of vaccine or to an individual who is already partially immunised.
Notes
Further advice about post-exposure rabies treatment, supply and administration of rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin is available at Rabies post-exposure treatment: management guidelines.