Rabies: Testing for Antibodies After a Dog Bite - Family Medicine

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Questions about rabies?


Hello, doctor! About ten years ago, I was bitten on the thigh by a medium-sized dog in mainland China.
At that time, there was no bleeding, but I had redness, swelling, and bite marks, with the redness turning purple and black.
I have not received any vaccinations or seen a doctor since then, and I did not properly care for the wound.
Although I have not experienced any physical issues up to now, I still feel a bit anxious and wonder if there might still be a virus in my body.
I would like to get an antibody test to check for the presence of the rabies virus.
Which medical department should I go to for this antibody testing?

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/30

Dr. Wu Fangcan reply Family Medicine


According to your statement, you were bitten by a dog ten years ago.
Since it has long surpassed the incubation period, there should be no risk of infection.
There is no need to test for antibodies.

Reply Date: 2017/04/30

More Info


Understanding rabies and the implications of a dog bite is crucial for your health and peace of mind. Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. The virus is typically transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal via bites or scratches. Given your history of being bitten by a dog and the fact that you did not receive any post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) at that time, it is understandable that you have concerns about your health.

In your case, since the dog bite occurred approximately ten years ago and you did not receive any vaccinations or medical treatment afterward, it is important to note that rabies has a long incubation period, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months, but it can be longer in some cases. The absence of symptoms for ten years is a positive sign, as rabies symptoms usually manifest within a few months of exposure. However, it is still wise to seek medical advice.

To address your specific question about testing for rabies antibodies, you would typically want to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in infectious diseases or a general practitioner who can guide you through the process. They can order the appropriate tests to check for rabies virus antibodies in your blood. The test you would be looking for is the rabies virus neutralizing antibody test, which can determine if your body has developed antibodies against the virus, indicating either past exposure or vaccination.

If you are concerned about rabies exposure, it is also advisable to discuss your situation with a healthcare provider who can evaluate your risk based on the circumstances of the bite, the behavior of the dog, and any other relevant factors. They may recommend additional tests or vaccinations based on your current health status and history.

In the event that you have not been vaccinated against rabies and there is any suspicion of exposure to a rabid animal, it is crucial to receive rabies post-exposure prophylaxis as soon as possible. This typically involves a series of rabies vaccinations and, in some cases, rabies immune globulin (RIG) to provide immediate protection.

In summary, while the likelihood of having rabies after ten years without symptoms is extremely low, it is still important to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss your concerns and possibly undergo testing. They can provide you with the necessary information and guidance on how to proceed, ensuring that you take the right steps to protect your health. Remember, early intervention is key in managing potential rabies exposure, so do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

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