HomeAnswersInfectious DiseasesrabiesShould I be concerned if the puppy that bit me four days back is not vaccinated for rabies?

Will the rabies vaccine be effective if administered after four days of exposure?

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Published At June 29, 2022
Reviewed AtDecember 12, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Before 4 days, I have had a scratch without bleeding due to a puppy bite. I have had a swelling but it subsided in the next morning. It is itching today due to dryness. Should I be concerned?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Cleanse your wound with soap and tap water. Are you and your puppy vaccinated for rabies? If not get vaccinated.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor for the reply,

The puppy is not vaccinated. It is already been 3 days. Can I get the vaccination for puppy tomorrow?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Observe the puppy for a week. You should get a rabies vaccination since the puppy is not vaccinated. Even if it is not immediately after a bite, please get vaccinated as soon as possible. Follow the below instructions;

1) If you were not vaccinated previously then get a regimen of four 1 ml doses of HDCV (human diploid cell culture rabies vaccine) or PCEC (purified chick embryo cell) vaccines administered intramuscularly. First dose of the four-dose course should be administered as soon as possible after exposure. Next doses should be administered on the days 3, 7, and 14 after the first vaccination.

2) If you were vaccinated previously, you should receive two intramuscular doses (1.0 ml each) of the vaccine, one dose immediately and the other after 3 days.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Shubadeep Debabrata Sinha
Dr. Shubadeep Debabrata Sinha

Infectious Diseases

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