A stray dog's leg just touched my foot. Should I take a precautionary vaccination?
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
My query is related to the necessity of a rabies vaccine for me. I am a 27-year-old healthy male. I am a student, staying in the large campus of my institute. This campus is filled with stray dogs and many other types of animals. People caressing those dogs is a very common scene here.
One week ago, while I was walking, a dog ran in front of me. At that time, its back leg touched my feet. I inspected that part well, but no visible break in the skin was observed. Should I approach a doctor for any treatment? As the disease is quite frightening, I request you to consider the minute risk too.
Kindly help.
Thank you for your time and guidance.
I look forward to your recommendations.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your apprehension. It has already been one week since you had the dog touch your feet, and there was no bleeding or break in the skin. No vaccination is required now. You should have thoroughly cleaned the region immediately after the dog had touched your leg.
I would like to know if you have any idea about the present status of the dog? A watch of the dog for 10 days post-bite would be ideal.
Also, precautionary vaccination is not usually advised. Only a post-exposure vaccine is advised in rabies. If anyone has a bite or break of the skin, or if there is a lick by a dog on broken/cut skin, or if there is any bleeding from the site of the bite, then the vaccine is recommended.
For a lick or fondling on intact skin, only cleaning and washing the wound in running tap water is sufficient.
I hope this answers your questions.
Please feel free to follow up whenever needed.
Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
Thank you for the excellent and detailed response.
I have no idea about the current status of the dog as there are many similar dogs in the campus. Unfortunately, I did not wash the area where it touched. Is it a concern, though my skin is intact?
Please help.
Thank you.
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
If none, then do not worry. Just remember the points I had told and help others if in need.
If you have not taken a TT (Tetanus Toxoid) injection in the last 1-2 years, a shot of Tetanus Toxoid will help. This is just a suggestion, not mandatory. So, do not think about this if you are normal and take care to avoid bites in the future. Is there any infection or pain in your leg?
I hope this helps address your query.
Kindly revert with the answers.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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