Does vaccination help with dog bites?

Question

Hello doctor,

I was feeding a wild stray dog in some area, and the dog tried to bite me, but I pulled my hand back quickly so he could not bite. Although his teeth touched my skin, it was red. Because of the hard touch and attack. But there was no puncturing of skin as I checked, and no blood was coming out. The redness also vanished after 10 to 15 minutes, but there was little pain and soreness because the area that he attacked on my hand is very sensitive. I will attach pictures.

Everyone said there was no blood, and the wound was not even visible, so I could not get the vaccine. I took vaccinations, though. But now I am quite scared because the 14-day window is also closed, and the doctor said that even the vaccination won’t work now that it is 20 days. Please see the pictures of my wound and give your suggestions. I am really scared.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and understand your concern. If you are concerned, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate the situation properly. They will be able to assess your risk and determine if any further action is needed, such as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for potential rabies exposure.

In my view, you should have received an anti-rabies vaccination, as that would have prevented a dog bite. However, the injection needs to be taken within 24 hours. I suggest that you see a doctor and get your antibiotics for the skin trauma. Vaccination will not help now, so do not be scared since there is no cut or direct contact, hence nothing to worry about.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Take a capsule of Augmentin (Amoxicillin 625 mg) two times a day, and apply T-bact (Mupirocin) ointment for the infection to resolve.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Answer 3

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Antibiotic Augmentin for seven days, morning and evening. Chymoral forte (Trypsin and Chymotrypsin) for pain and swelling, one tablet a day for three days. See, we are just treating the dog bite infection; this will not treat the virus. I am hoping that the virus did not get transmitted to you.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.