Does touching a stray kitten cause rabies?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have a concern regarding the transmission of rabies virus. Last night, I saw a stray kitten and spent about five seconds touching its fur and tummy. Afterward, I went inside my house and sprayed some alcohol on my hands, though I was not sure if it was enough.

About three minutes later, I helped my mother take her medication. I used the same hand that I had touched the kitten with to handle her medication pill. If the kitten was rabid, is there a possibility that the rabies virus could have spread to my hand and subsequently to my mother's medication pill since she swallowed it?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to iCliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

The human rabies virus is a serious concern, as there is no treatment once it is infected. The rabies virus can be transmitted through animal bites, scratches from an infected animal’s nails, exposure to an infected animal's saliva through licking, or contact with an animal's eye secretions. However, the rabies virus has a very short lifespan outside the body, lasting only milliseconds, and it cannot survive without a host.

If there was no biting, scratching, or direct contact with an infected animal’s saliva, there is no need to worry. Still, if there is any doubt or concern, receiving the Rabipur vaccine (anti-Rabies serum) 0.2ml ID (intradermal) shots provides complete protection against the rabies virus. The vaccine is available in both government and private hospitals. A total of four injections are administered on specific days, Day 0, Day 3, Day 7, and Day 28 to ensure full protection against rabies.

I hope I have solved your query.

Thank you.