Rabies Risks After Dog Bite: Symptoms and Concerns

The Current Status of Rabies

Hello doctor, I was bitten by a stray dog on June 2nd.
The wounds are on the back of my thigh, and there are two wounds.
I don't think they injured the muscle, as I haven't felt any pain while walking.
That day, I went to the hospital immediately for examination; they just cleaned the wounds and used povidone-iodine for disinfection, and that was it.
I didn't receive a tetanus shot since I had one three years ago, but I did not get the rabies vaccine.
Although the doctor mentioned that rabies has not been present in Taiwan for many years, I felt reassured at first.
However, starting June 9th, I began to feel tightness in the tendons near the wound on my thigh, along with fatigue and simultaneous feelings of hunger, as well as nausea.
Could you please tell me what this might be? Thank you.

K, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/11

Dr. Peng Xianwen reply Surgery

The mortality rate of rabies is nearly 100%, and since the bite occurred over 11 days ago (on June 13), there have been no reported cases of rabies in Taiwan.
Therefore, your symptoms are likely unrelated to rabies.

Reply Date: 2019/06/11

More Info

Rabies is a viral disease that primarily affects mammals, including humans, and is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, typically via bites. In your case, being bitten by a stray dog raises concerns about rabies, especially if the dog's vaccination status is unknown. While rabies is rare in many regions, including Taiwan, it is crucial to take any potential exposure seriously.

After a dog bite, the immediate steps you took—cleaning the wound and seeking medical attention—are essential. However, rabies vaccination is critical if there is any risk of exposure. The incubation period for rabies can vary, but symptoms typically appear within one to three months after exposure, although they can manifest as early as a few weeks or as late as several years. Early symptoms of rabies can include fever, headache, and general malaise, which may progress to more severe neurological symptoms.

The symptoms you describe—tightness in the thigh, fatigue, hunger, and nausea—are not typical symptoms of rabies. However, they could indicate other issues, such as anxiety or stress related to the incident, or even a localized infection at the bite site. It is also possible that the tightness in your thigh could be related to muscle strain or tension, especially if you have been compensating for the injury in your movements.

Given the potential seriousness of rabies, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately:
1. Neurological Symptoms: Confusion, agitation, hallucinations, or difficulty swallowing.

2. Hydrophobia: Difficulty swallowing water or a fear of water.

3. Paralysis: Weakness or paralysis, especially if it spreads from the bite site.

Even if rabies is not suspected, your symptoms warrant further evaluation. It is advisable to return to your healthcare provider for a thorough examination. They may recommend additional tests or treatments based on your current symptoms and medical history.

In addition to rabies, other potential complications from dog bites include:
- Infection: Bacterial infections can occur at the site of the bite, leading to redness, swelling, and pus. If you notice increased pain, warmth, or discharge from the wound, seek medical care.

- Tetanus: Since you mentioned you had a tetanus shot three years ago, you may be protected, but it’s essential to ensure your vaccination status is up to date, especially if the wound is deep or contaminated.

- Allergic Reactions: If you experience swelling or hives, this could indicate an allergic reaction to the bite or the treatment.

In summary, while the risk of rabies in your case may be low, it is crucial to remain vigilant about your symptoms and seek medical advice if they worsen or if you develop new symptoms. Rabies is a preventable disease, and timely vaccination is the best way to protect yourself after potential exposure. Always err on the side of caution when it comes to animal bites, and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

Similar Q&A

Dog Bite Concerns: Understanding Risks and Symptoms After a Puppy Bite

Hello Doctor, I was bitten by my puppy at home on March 18, right after it received its first rabies vaccine on the same day. The puppy has been behaving normally since then. The bite was on my left thumb, and there was slight bleeding. Over the past few days, I have been experie...

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine
Hello! The incubation period for rabies typically ranges from 1 to 3 months, but it can be as short as less than a week or extend beyond a year. This duration depends on various factors such as the severity of the wound, the density of nerve distribution in the wound area, the di...

Dog Bite Concerns: What to Do After an Attack and Rabies Risks

Yesterday, while I was visiting Taroko Gorge, I was suddenly bitten by a stranger's dog while walking on the road. The dog's owner immediately helped me disinfect the wound and assured me that his dog is healthy and up to date on vaccinations. He mentioned that the dog ...

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery
Hello! Generally, if you are bitten by a healthy pet dog, rabies vaccination is not required, but it is recommended if bitten by a stray dog. If the dog is domesticated, you can feel more at ease! However, dog bite wounds can be difficult to heal. Take care! Changhua Hospital car...

Concerns About Rabies After Contact with a Dog: What You Need to Know

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you about rabies. This morning, I bought breakfast and accidentally brushed against a dog with the plastic bag containing my food. The dog may have licked the plastic bag, which I then placed in my bicycle basket. When I got home, about half an ...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Miss Sihuan, Rabies is primarily transmitted through dog bites, but bats, wolves, foxes, and skunks can also spread the virus. The rabies virus survives in the saliva of infected animals and is transmitted to humans through bites, entering the central nervous system via per...

Rabies Risk After Dog Bite: What You Need to Know

Three days ago, I was playing with a dog and accidentally got scratched on my hand by its canine teeth. The dog is a stray puppy that I brought home to care for. I'm unsure if I could be infected with rabies.

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Mr. Wei: 1. According to standard procedures, after a dog bite, the dog should be quarantined for 10 days to prevent it from biting other dogs. If the dog does not die from rabies after 10 days, then you should not contract rabies. However, if the dog dies from rabies withi...