RabAvert Rabies Vaccine Supply Limitation

Posted: September 30, 2011

CDC has been notified that Novartis Vaccines currently has a limited supply of their human rabies vaccine, RabAvert, in their inventory. However, there is a normal supply of RabAvert in the wholesaler/distributor channels. At this time, there are no changes to the ACIP recommendations for either pre or post-exposure prophylaxis. Novartis does have a limited supply of RabAvert in inventory and can make product available to physicians who are not able to order through a wholesaler/distributor (see below) and who need RabAvert for post-exposure prophylaxis. Novartis expects to have additional supply of product available in November.

CDC is working together with FDA and the vaccine producers to ensure that no rabies vaccine shortage develops. Public health professionals are reminded that Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control [PDF – 103 KB] and ACIP human rabies prevention guidelines are useful documents to consider throughout the year to prevent and manage exposures to rabid animals. To minimize the need for human post-exposure prophylaxis, we continue to recommend public health engagement that includes:

• exposure risk assessments
• prompt laboratory diagnosis
• confinement and observation of suspect dogs, cats or ferrets.

In addition, continued health communication and education efforts can help minimize potential rabies exposures. Messages should focus primarily on avoiding bites and other exposures from wild animals and responsible pet ownership (including up-to-date vaccinations). CDC’s rabies and families page contains prevention messages in plain language that may be useful for engaging consumers.

CDC will provide updates to the supply situation as needed.

Contact information for RabAvert *wholesalers/distributors that have available RabAvert as of September 30, 2011 is provided below. * Please note that this list may not be complete.

AmerisourceBergen:
See list of distribution centers and phone numbers [PDF – 180 KB].

Cardinal Health:
(614) 757-5000
Specialty Pharmaceutical Distribution: (866) 476-1340

McKesson:
(800) 482-3784

Medico-Mart, Inc:
(800) 242-6248 or (262) 446-2323

* Use of trade names and commercial sources is for identification only and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.