What Should a Human Do If Bitten by a Rabid or Suspected Rabid Dog or Cat?
Author: Sawaira Qamar, DVM RVMP
A bite from a rabid or suspected rabid dog or cat is a medical emergency. Immediate and correct action can save life. Rabies is almost 100% fatal once symptoms appear, but it is completely preventable if post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is started on time.
- Immediate Wound Washing (MOST IMPORTANT STEP)
- Wash the wound immediately with running water and soap for at least 15 minutes
- Apply povidone-iodine, iodine, or 70% alcohol if available
- Do NOT apply chili, oil, turmeric, ash, or herbal remedies
- Do NOT tightly close or stitch the wound unless advised by a doctor
- Seek Medical Care Immediately
- Go to the nearest hospital or emergency department without delay
- Inform the doctor about the animal species, bite location, and rabies suspicion
- Rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)
Rabies Vaccination Schedule (for unvaccinated persons):
- Day 0 (day of bite)
- Day 3
- Day 7
- Day 14
- Day 28 (in some protocols)
Vaccines must be administered intramuscularly in the deltoid region only.
- Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG)
Required for severe bites, deep wounds, multiple bites, or bites on face, neck, hands, or genitals.
- As much as possible should be infiltrated into and around the wound
- Remaining amount given intramuscularly away from vaccine site
- Best given on Day 0, can be given up to Day 7
- If the Person Was Previously Vaccinated
- No rabies immunoglobulin required
- Only two booster doses on Day 0 and Day 3
- What Should Be Done With the Animal?
- Do NOT attempt treatment of a rabid animal
- The animal should be humanely euthanized and tested for rabies
- Report the case to veterinary and public health authorities
Key Message
Any bite or scratch from a rabid or suspected rabid dog or cat should never be ignored.
Immediate wound washing and timely rabies vaccination can save lives.
References
World Health Organization (WHO)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)