Should I be concerned about a creature encounter from three months ago?

Question

Hello doctor,

Three months ago, I accidentally stepped on a large bandicoot rat near a drainage area. Although I was wearing slippers at the time, I am unsure if the creature bit or scratched me. Upon returning home, I thoroughly examined myself but found no signs of bite or scratch marks. I cleaned the affected area with soap on the same day. Recently, while browsing the internet, I came across information about rabies. Given the three-month lapse since the incident, should I be concerned about rabies and consider getting vaccinated now? Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Given that there were no apparent bite or scratch marks, it is highly unlikely that there was any infection, including rabies or other pathogens.

Your decision to wash the affected area with soap afterward was a prudent and sensible action.

It is important to note that rabies symptoms typically manifest between four to 12 weeks after exposure and may include non-specific flu-like symptoms, fever, excessive saliva production, throat pain, difficulty swallowing, and stupor. Since you have not reported experiencing any of these symptoms, the likelihood of rabies seems low.

It is worth mentioning that the primary source of rabies infections in humans is rabid dogs, accounting for 99% of cases. However, considering that you reside in India where rabies is a known issue, obtaining the rabies vaccine would be a reasonable precautionary measure.

I hope this information will help you.

Thank you.