Concerns About Rabies After Biking Incident with Unknown Animal

Q: Concerns About Rabies After Biking Incident with Unknown Animal

Hello： The discomfort you described is more likely to be caused by contact dermatitis or a skin allergic reaction due to exposure to an unknown organism. <br>Common symptoms of rabies include fever, sore throat, chills, malaise, loss of appetite, vomiting, difficulty breathing, c

Collided with an unidentified creature while riding a bike?

Hello Doctor, on the night of April 3, 2023, while riding a bike in the Shulin District of New Taipei City, my left knee collided with an unidentified creature, which I suspected to be a small bat.
When I got home, I noticed a small wound on my knee.
About two weeks later, I began experiencing symptoms near the knee that felt like tingling and intense itching.
These symptoms have persisted until now.
Recently, I've also felt a pressure in my eyes and head, as if the world is spinning, and I have a sensation that my vision is slightly out of focus.
During this time, I have visited the hospital twice, but the doctors said I was overthinking it.
I would like to ask if, in this situation, there is a possibility of rabies infection.
I am very concerned that these symptoms might indicate something serious.
Thank you for your assistance.

Mi Mang Zhong～, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/28

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: The discomfort you described is more likely to be caused by contact dermatitis or a skin allergic reaction due to exposure to an unknown organism.
Common symptoms of rabies include fever, sore throat, chills, malaise, loss of appetite, vomiting, difficulty breathing, cough, weakness, anxiety, and headache.
These symptoms may progress to severe conditions such as paralysis, difficulty swallowing, throat muscle spasms, confusion, and seizures after a few days.
This seems quite different from your feelings of swelling in the eyes and head, as well as the sensation of spinning.
I suggest you not to worry too much.
However, if you continue to feel discomfort in your head and eyes, it would be advisable to consult a family medicine physician or a neurologist.

Reply Date: 2023/05/28

More Info

In your situation, it is understandable to have concerns about rabies after an incident involving a potential encounter with a bat while biking. Rabies is a viral disease that is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, typically via bites. The symptoms of rabies can be severe and include fever, headache, confusion, agitation, and eventually paralysis and death if not treated promptly. However, it is important to assess the risk based on the specifics of your encounter and the symptoms you are experiencing.

Firstly, regarding the incident itself, if you indeed collided with a bat, the risk of rabies transmission would depend on whether the bat was infected and whether you sustained a bite or scratch that broke the skin. You mentioned having a small wound on your knee, but it is crucial to determine if this injury was caused by a bite or if it was merely a superficial scrape. If the skin was not broken or if there was no direct contact with the bat's saliva, the risk of rabies transmission is significantly reduced.

The symptoms you describe, such as tingling in the knee area, itching, and feelings of pressure in your head and eyes, do not align with the typical early symptoms of rabies. Rabies symptoms usually manifest as systemic issues like fever, malaise, and neurological symptoms, which progress rapidly. Your symptoms may be more indicative of a localized reaction, possibly due to the injury itself or an unrelated condition such as anxiety or a mild allergic reaction.

It is also worth noting that rabies is quite rare in bats, and the majority of bats do not carry the virus. If the bat was indeed small and did not exhibit aggressive behavior, the likelihood of it being rabid is lower. However, if you are still feeling anxious about your health and the possibility of rabies, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a thorough evaluation. They may recommend post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) if there is any concern about rabies exposure.

In summary, while it is wise to be cautious and aware of the risks associated with animal encounters, the symptoms you are experiencing do not strongly suggest rabies. If you continue to feel unwell or if your symptoms worsen, seeking further medical advice is essential. Your health and peace of mind are important, and a healthcare provider can help clarify any uncertainties and provide appropriate care.

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