Dog Bite Concerns: Risks and Symptoms After a Puppy Bite

Bitten by a puppy at home?

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 experiencing intermittent burning sensations in my left pinky, ring finger, and left arm.
Could you please advise if this is a psychological effect or related to the injury on my thumb, especially since there have been recent reports of rabies outbreaks? Thank you.

Jianhui, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/23

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 distance to the brain, the strain of the virus, the viral load, the degree of protection from clothing, and other factors.

Early symptoms of rabies are nonspecific and may include fever, sore throat, chills, malaise, anorexia, vomiting, difficulty breathing, cough, weakness, anxiety, and headache, as well as specific symptoms related to the site of the bite or scratch.
After several days, symptoms may progress to agitation and fear.
This can then develop into paralysis, difficulty swallowing, and spasms of the throat muscles, leading to hydrophobia (also known as fear of water).

It is advisable to continuously monitor the wound and the development of symptoms, or to visit a family medicine clinic for evaluation and treatment by a physician.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2022/03/23

More Info

When it comes to concerns about rabies following a dog bite, it is essential to understand the nature of the disease, the transmission routes, and the specific circumstances surrounding the incident. Rabies is a viral infection that primarily spreads through the saliva of infected animals, most commonly through bites. However, it can also be transmitted if the saliva comes into contact with open wounds or mucous membranes.

In your case, you mentioned that you were bitten by a puppy that had just received its first rabies vaccination on the same day. Generally, if a dog has been vaccinated against rabies, the risk of transmission is significantly reduced, especially if the vaccination was administered according to the recommended schedule. Puppies typically receive their first rabies vaccine at around 12 to 16 weeks of age, and it takes a few weeks for the vaccine to provide full immunity. Since the puppy was vaccinated on the same day it bit you, it is unlikely that it was shedding the virus at that time.

The symptoms you are experiencing, such as intermittent burning sensations in your thumb, fingers, and arm, could be attributed to several factors. It is possible that these sensations are related to the injury itself, particularly if the bite caused nerve irritation or damage. The body's response to injury can sometimes manifest as unusual sensations, including burning or tingling. Additionally, anxiety and stress about the potential for rabies can exacerbate these feelings, leading to a psychological component that may amplify your perception of discomfort.

It is crucial to monitor the bite wound for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus. If you notice any of these symptoms, or if the burning sensations persist or worsen, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can evaluate the wound and determine if further treatment, such as antibiotics or a tetanus shot, is necessary.

Regarding rabies, the incubation period for the virus can vary widely, typically ranging from one to three months, but it can be shorter or longer in some cases. The onset of symptoms usually begins with nonspecific signs such as fever, malaise, and headache, followed by more severe neurological symptoms. Given that the puppy was vaccinated and is behaving normally, the likelihood of rabies transmission in this scenario is extremely low.

However, if you have any lingering concerns or if the puppy shows any signs of illness in the coming days, it is prudent to consult with a healthcare provider. They may recommend observing the puppy for 10 days to ensure it remains healthy, as this is a standard protocol for assessing rabies risk after a bite from a potentially infected animal.

In summary, while your concerns are valid, the circumstances surrounding the bite—particularly the puppy's vaccination status—greatly reduce the risk of rabies. The sensations you are experiencing are likely related to the injury rather than a sign of rabies infection. Nevertheless, staying vigilant and seeking medical advice if symptoms change or worsen is always a wise approach.

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