Cat Scratch Concerns: Do I Need Rabies and Tetanus Shots?

Q: Cat Scratch Concerns: Do I Need Rabies and Tetanus Shots?

According to your statement： There have been no reported rabies outbreaks in New Taipei City recently, so the risk of infection is low. <br>Therefore, rabies vaccination is not necessary. <br>As for tetanus, if you have not received a booster shot in the past 5 years, you may nee

Questions about rabies vaccination after being scratched by a stray cat?

Hello, Doctor.
About 10 days ago, I encountered a stray cat near the Tamsui MRT Station in New Taipei City.
The cat showed no signs of aggression, and I was not licked by it.
While I was petting it, it suddenly jumped onto my lap, and I was pricked by its claw through my jeans, resulting in a small wound of approximately 2-3 millimeters.
At the time, I did not experience ongoing pain, so I did not clean the wound immediately.
By the evening, the wound had scabbed over.
After researching, I found that rabies in Taiwan is primarily associated with high-altitude areas and badgers.
According to recent reports from the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control, there are currently no rabies outbreaks in New Taipei City, and in recent years, there has only been one case of rabies in a puppy that was bitten by a badger.
Although Taiwan currently has no reported cases of rabies in dogs or cats, I am still anxious about the possibility of developing the disease.

1.
Do I need to receive a rabies vaccine?
2.
Should I get a tetanus vaccine?
Thank you for your assistance, Doctor.

Guo Xiansheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/11

Dr. Wu Fangcan reply Family Medicine

According to your statement: There have been no reported rabies outbreaks in New Taipei City recently, so the risk of infection is low.
Therefore, rabies vaccination is not necessary.
As for tetanus, if you have not received a booster shot in the past 5 years, you may need to get one.

Reply Date: 2017/04/11

More Info

When it comes to concerns about potential rabies and tetanus exposure from a cat scratch, it's essential to consider several factors, including the nature of the injury, the animal's health status, and local epidemiological data regarding rabies.

1. Rabies Vaccination: In your case, since you were scratched by a stray cat, the primary concern is rabies. However, rabies transmission typically occurs through bites rather than scratches. The risk of rabies from a scratch is considerably lower, especially if the scratch did not break the skin significantly. In Taiwan, as you mentioned, there is currently no rabies outbreak among cats and dogs, and the incidence of rabies in domestic animals is quite low. Given that the cat did not exhibit aggressive behavior and there have been no reports of rabies in the area, the likelihood of rabies transmission is minimal. Nevertheless, if the cat was acting strangely or if you have any doubts about its health, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional about the need for rabies vaccination.

2. Tetanus Vaccination: Tetanus is caused by a bacterium that can enter the body through wounds, including scratches. The decision to receive a tetanus shot depends on your vaccination history and the nature of the wound. If you have had a tetanus booster within the last 10 years, you may not need another one. However, if it has been more than 10 years since your last booster, or if the wound was particularly dirty or deep, it is advisable to get a booster shot. Since your injury was minor (2-3 mm), the risk of tetanus is lower, but it is still essential to be up to date with your vaccinations.

3. Wound Care: Regardless of the need for vaccinations, proper wound care is crucial. Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection. If you notice any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus, seek medical attention promptly.

4. Consultation with Healthcare Providers: Given your concerns and the specifics of your situation, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider. They can assess your injury, review your vaccination history, and provide personalized recommendations regarding rabies and tetanus vaccinations.

In summary, while the risk of rabies from a scratch by a stray cat is low, especially in an area with no recent rabies cases, it is essential to monitor the wound and consult with a healthcare professional regarding vaccinations. Keeping your tetanus vaccination up to date is also important for overall health. If you have any further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to a medical professional for guidance.

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