Do I Need Rabies Vaccine After Cat Scratch? Expert Advice and Locations in Taoyuan

Rabies vaccine

Hello Dr.
Lin: Seven days ago, I was scratched by a pet cat in mainland China, resulting in a small wound that bled a little.
I subsequently cleaned the wound and applied iodine.
The pet cat has been raised indoors since it was a kitten and has not been in contact with other animals, and it appears to be healthy.
Do I need to get a rabies vaccine? If so, where can I get vaccinated in Taoyuan? Thank you for your response.

dvivily, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/22

Dr. Lin Jiafang reply Family Medicine

Hello, if your pet cat has not been in contact with other animals and has shown no symptoms of rabies upon observation, there is no need to administer the rabies vaccine.
If there is a need for rabies vaccination or travel clinic consultation, please visit the Taoyuan International Airport Medical Center clinic at Lixin Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/02/22

More Info

When it comes to the risk of rabies after being scratched by a pet cat, the general consensus among medical professionals is that the likelihood of contracting rabies from a domesticated cat that has been kept indoors and has not had contact with wild animals is extremely low. In your case, since the cat has been a household pet, has not been exposed to other animals, and appears to be healthy, the risk of rabies is minimal.
Rabies is primarily transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, typically through bites. Scratches can pose a risk if they are deep and if the cat has been in contact with a rabid animal, but this is not common with domesticated cats. In many regions, including Taiwan, rabies is more prevalent in wild animals, and there have been very few documented cases of rabies transmission from domestic cats to humans.

Given that you have already cleaned the wound and applied antiseptic, you have taken the appropriate first steps. It is crucial to monitor the wound for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus. If the wound heals without complications, there is generally no need for rabies vaccination.

However, if you have any concerns or if the cat shows any signs of illness, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. They can assess the situation more thoroughly and provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.

As for where to get the rabies vaccine in Taoyuan, if it is determined that you need it, you can visit local hospitals or clinics that offer vaccinations. The Taoyuan City Health Bureau or local health centers can provide information on where to receive the rabies vaccine. It is advisable to contact them directly or check their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding vaccination locations and availability.

In summary, based on the information provided, it is unlikely that you need a rabies vaccine after being scratched by your pet cat, especially considering its history and health status. However, if you have any lingering concerns or if the situation changes, seeking medical advice is always a good practice.

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