Should I Get a Rabies Vaccine After a Possible Dog Encounter?

Q: Should I Get a Rabies Vaccine After a Possible Dog Encounter?

Hello： Currently, rabies in Taiwan occurs only in wild animals such as ferrets and civets, and there is no transmission among domestic dogs and cats. <br>If you encountered a pet dog and did not have any obvious external injuries, your risk of contracting rabies is very low. <br>

Should I get the rabies vaccine?

Yesterday afternoon, I encountered a family with a little girl walking a small white dog.
As I passed by them, I accidentally stepped on something that felt like the dog.
At that moment, I felt something under my left foot, but I wasn't sure if the dog jumped up or lightly bit my calf.
Later, I checked myself and found no obvious external injuries or broken skin, but I occasionally experienced a tingling and aching sensation in one or two spots on my calf.
Since I couldn't find the owner, I don't know if the dog had been vaccinated against rabies.
I have already received a tetanus shot previously.
Should I get the rabies vaccine at my own expense? Is it necessary to complete several doses of the rabies vaccine for it to be effective?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/04/17

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: Currently, rabies in Taiwan occurs only in wild animals such as ferrets and civets, and there is no transmission among domestic dogs and cats.
If you encountered a pet dog and did not have any obvious external injuries, your risk of contracting rabies is very low.
Therefore, you do not need to receive the rabies vaccine.

Reply Date: 2023/04/17

More Info

When it comes to rabies, it is essential to understand the risks associated with potential exposure, especially after an encounter with a dog. Rabies is a viral disease that is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, most commonly through bites. However, it can also be transmitted if saliva comes into contact with open wounds or mucous membranes. Given your situation, let's break down the considerations regarding whether you should receive a rabies vaccine.

Firstly, it is important to assess the nature of your encounter with the dog. You mentioned that you may have stepped on the dog and felt a sensation on your leg, but you did not observe any visible injuries or breaks in the skin. This is a crucial factor because rabies transmission typically requires a bite or direct contact with saliva through an open wound. If there was no break in the skin, the risk of rabies transmission is significantly lower.

However, the uncertainty surrounding the dog's vaccination status adds a layer of complexity. If the dog was not vaccinated against rabies and had been exposed to the virus, there could be a risk, albeit small, if there was any contact with saliva. Since you were unable to identify the dog's owner or ascertain its vaccination history, this uncertainty can understandably cause concern.

In terms of rabies vaccination, the standard post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) involves a series of vaccinations. The rabies vaccine is typically administered in a series of four to five doses, depending on the specific circumstances of the exposure. The vaccination schedule usually includes doses on days 0, 3, 7, and 14 after exposure, with an additional dose on day 28 for immunocompromised individuals. Completing the full series is crucial for ensuring adequate immunity against the virus.

Given your situation, here are some recommendations:
1. Consult a Healthcare Professional: It is advisable to seek medical advice from a healthcare provider who can evaluate your specific circumstances. They can assess the risk based on your encounter and provide guidance on whether rabies vaccination is warranted.

2. Consider Vaccination: If there is any doubt about the dog's vaccination status or if you experience any symptoms (such as unusual pain or changes in sensation), it may be prudent to receive the rabies vaccine as a precautionary measure. Rabies is a fatal disease once symptoms appear, so it is better to err on the side of caution.

3. Monitor for Symptoms: Keep an eye on your health for any signs of rabies, which can include fever, headache, anxiety, confusion, and neurological symptoms. If you notice any concerning symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

4. Tetanus Vaccination: Since you mentioned having received a tetanus shot previously, ensure that your tetanus vaccination is up to date, especially if you sustain any injuries in the future.

In summary, while the risk of rabies from your encounter may be low, the uncertainty regarding the dog's vaccination status and the nature of the contact warrants a careful approach. Consulting with a healthcare professional will provide you with the best course of action tailored to your specific situation. Remember, rabies is a preventable disease, and timely vaccination is key to ensuring your safety.

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