Can You Get Rabies from a Dog's Saliva? the Risks

Rabies issues

Hello doctor, today I encountered a stray dog on the street.
It was barking at the dogs near a food stall.
I quickly walked past the dog, but I have a small wound on the joint of my right thumb.
If the dog's saliva accidentally splashed onto my wound, is there a possibility of contracting rabies? Although the dog was a bit far away when it was barking, I’m not sure if I might have been splashed as I walked by, and I forgot to pay attention to it after that.
Could this situation lead to an infection? I hope you can help me analyze this, thank you.

Xiao Xiao, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/15

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, rabies is primarily transmitted through wound infection.
If saliva simply splashes on the skin, it will not lead to infection, so there is no need to worry.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2020/07/15

More Info

Rabies is a viral disease that primarily affects mammals, including dogs, and is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal. The primary mode of transmission is through bites, where the saliva of an infected animal enters the body through broken skin or mucous membranes. In your case, you are concerned about the possibility of contracting rabies from a small wound on your thumb that may have come into contact with the saliva of a stray dog.

To address your question, the risk of contracting rabies from a dog's saliva is significantly lower if there is no direct bite or if the saliva does not enter an open wound. Rabies virus is not airborne and does not spread through casual contact. The virus is typically only present in the saliva of an infected animal during the later stages of the disease, and it is most commonly transmitted through bites.

Given that you mentioned the dog was barking and you were at a distance, the likelihood of saliva being projected onto your wound is quite low. However, if you have an open wound, it is always advisable to take precautions. Here are some important points to consider:
1. Wound Care: If you have a small wound, it is essential to clean it thoroughly with soap and water. This is a critical step in preventing infection from any source, not just rabies.

2. Observation of the Dog: If the dog appears to be healthy and is not showing signs of rabies (such as aggression, excessive drooling, or paralysis), the risk of rabies transmission is lower. However, stray dogs can be unpredictable, and their health status is often unknown.

3. Consulting a Healthcare Provider: If you are concerned about rabies exposure, it is best to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) if there is a significant risk of rabies exposure. PEP typically involves a series of rabies vaccinations and is most effective when administered promptly after exposure.

4. Vaccination Status: If you are bitten or scratched by a dog, knowing the vaccination status of the animal is crucial. If the dog is up-to-date on its rabies vaccinations, the risk of transmission is significantly reduced.

5. Symptoms of Rabies: Be aware of the symptoms of rabies, which can include fever, headache, confusion, agitation, and hydrophobia. If you experience any of these symptoms after potential exposure, seek medical attention immediately.

In conclusion, while the risk of contracting rabies from a stray dog's saliva is low, especially without a bite, it is always better to err on the side of caution. Proper wound care and consultation with a healthcare provider can help ensure your safety and peace of mind. If you have any further concerns or if the situation changes, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

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