Rabies Exposure

Post exposure prophylaxis decisions after potential rabies contact

Step by Step

Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but it can be prevented with prompt treatment after exposure. Wash the wound immediately and thoroughly with soap and running water, the World Health Organization recommends about 15 minutes, then apply an antiseptic if available. Seek medical advice urgently after any bite or scratch from a mammal in an area where rabies occurs, or any contact with a bat. Health professionals decide whether post exposure prophylaxis, a course of rabies vaccine and sometimes rabies immunoglobulin, is needed, based on the animal, the type of exposure, and local rabies risk. In some cases, a dog, cat, or ferret that bit someone can be observed for 10 days. Do not delay seeking care while waiting to observe the animal.