Can Contact with a Stray Dog's Saliva on Clothing Transmit Rabies?

If clothing has been licked by a stray dog and then comes into contact with a wound, is there a concern for rabies?

Hello Doctor: Yesterday, when I visited the Ziyun Temple at Banlu Township, I encountered a stray dog (not sure if it was being fed by someone) that was very excited and friendly.
It jumped up to hug the legs of the worshippers and lightly nipped at their clothing, following them closely as if seeking companionship.
When the stray dog saw me, it exhibited the same behavior, jumping up and lightly biting the hem of my coat.
About fifteen minutes later, I suspect I touched the part of my clothing that it had bitten and then touched the inside of my nasal mucosa, which has an injury.
I would like to ask if this could potentially lead to rabies infection? I am a bit worried, especially since there have been reported cases of rabid badgers attacking people in Banlu Township this year.
Thank you for taking the time to respond.

Inrin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/02/08

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, regarding rabies, you can refer to the health education information provided by the Centers for Disease Control in Taiwan at https://www.cdc.gov.tw/diseaseinfo.aspx?treeid=8d54c504e820735b&nowtreeid=265391389b8b2287&tid=9D2E1B3A862F06FB.

Main transmission method: The rabies virus is present in the saliva of infected animals, and it enters the human body through wounds caused by animal scratches or bites.

Reminder: Online consultations do not equate to in-person medical visits, nor can they provide accurate diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2018/02/08

More Info

When it comes to the transmission of rabies, it is essential to understand how the virus spreads and the conditions under which it can pose a risk. Rabies is primarily transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, typically through bites or scratches. The virus is present in the saliva of animals that are symptomatic of the disease, and it is most commonly associated with wild animals, such as bats, raccoons, and foxes, as well as unvaccinated domestic pets.

In your scenario, where a stray dog licked your clothing and you later touched that area before touching a wound on your nasal mucosa, the risk of rabies transmission is extremely low. Rabies virus does not survive long outside of a host, and it is particularly sensitive to environmental conditions. Once exposed to air, the virus quickly loses its viability. Studies have shown that rabies virus can survive for only a few hours outside of a host, and it is unlikely to remain infectious after being transferred to clothing.

Moreover, the primary mode of rabies transmission is through direct contact with saliva entering the body through a bite or an open wound. In your case, while the dog did lick your clothing, unless there was direct saliva transfer to an open wound or mucous membrane, the risk of infection is negligible. The fact that you touched your clothing and then your nasal mucosa does not constitute a direct transmission route for rabies.

It is also important to note that rabies is not transmitted through casual contact or through the air. The virus does not spread through respiratory droplets, which means that sneezing or coughing from an infected animal does not pose a risk of rabies transmission. Therefore, even if the dog had sneezed or licked your clothing, the likelihood of contracting rabies in this manner is extremely low.

Given the context of your concern, it is understandable to feel anxious, especially with reports of rabies cases in the area. However, if you are not experiencing any symptoms and the dog did not exhibit signs of rabies (such as aggression, excessive drooling, or paralysis), the risk remains minimal. If you have any further concerns or if you develop symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

In summary, while it is always wise to be cautious around stray animals, the specific scenario you described does not present a significant risk for rabies transmission. Maintaining good hygiene, such as washing your clothing after contact with animals, is a good practice, but in this case, it is unlikely that you need to take any further action regarding rabies. If you have any lingering concerns, especially given the rabies cases in your area, consider discussing them with a healthcare provider or a local public health official for peace of mind.

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