Does my child need the vaccine again after a cat scratch?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

A complete series of anti-rabies vaccine is required after an animal bite if it is a stray animal, an unvaccinated pet animal, or a suspected rabid animal. This is given on day 0, day 3, day 7, and day 14. (day 28 is optional depending on the site of bite, wound depth, age, etc.).

This gives good protection after an animal bite for a good number of years, though the range is big, from a year to a decade. That is why, with a second or subsequent bite from a stray animal, it is always recommended to give at least the first three doses again, provided she received the complete series the first time.

With the neighbour's cat scratches, a few things require consideration:

• Where are the scratch marks, and was there bleeding at the site?

• Being a pet cat, has the cat received all the vaccines? Your neighbour must have a record.

If the cat is well vaccinated, there is no need to repeat the anti-rabies vaccine. Check for the tetanus vaccine status when your daughter received it. Take care of the local scratch site for any infection.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.