Can you get rabies from a red mark caused by a puppy scratching you?

Feb 08, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Li Feng

Introduction

A red mark caused by a puppy's scratch does not necessarily mean you will get rabies. If scratched by a puppy and a red mark appears, you should first determine whether there is an injury. Disinfect the area with alcohol; if you feel pain, it likely indicates skin damage, which constitutes a level-two exposure. In such cases, wash the wound thoroughly with soapy water for more than half an hour, and receive a rabies vaccination within 24 hours. Otherwise, there is a risk of rabies virus infection.

A red mark from being scratched by a puppy does not necessarily mean one will get rabies.

Several factors must be present simultaneously for rabies to occur. If the puppy carries the rabies virus and the scratch causes skin damage, the virus may enter the body through the wound, potentially leading to rabies; in such cases, prompt administration of the rabies vaccine is necessary.

If there is only a red mark without any break in the skin, rabies cannot occur. Additionally, if the puppy is healthy, does not carry the rabies virus, or has been vaccinated against rabies, the risk of rabies transmission is also nonexistent.

After being scratched by a puppy and developing a red mark, it's important to determine whether an injury occurred. Disinfecting with alcohol can help assess this: if pain is felt, it likely indicates skin damage—this is classified as level-two exposure. The wound should be washed thoroughly with soap and water for over half an hour, and the rabies vaccine should be administered within 24 hours to prevent potential infection. If there is no pain, the skin is likely intact—this is considered level-one exposure. However, since the fatality rate of rabies in humans is nearly 100%, it is still advisable to receive the rabies vaccine after being scratched by a puppy.

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Are there any specific symptoms of rabies?

Rabies has clear and specific symptoms, mainly characterized by abnormal sensations during the prodromal stage and typical hydrophobia, aversion to wind, and other signs during the excitation stage. The disease progresses rapidly and is highly distinctive, with an extremely high fatality rate once symptoms appear. After being bitten, scratched, or exposed to a suspected infected animal, medical attention should be sought immediately regardless of whether symptoms have developed. Symptoms typically appear from several days to dozens of days after exposure.

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What are the side effects of rabies immune globulin?

In general, possible side effects during the use of rabies immunoglobulin may include redness and swelling at the injection site, skin allergic reactions, mild fever, headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Rabies immunoglobulin should be used strictly as directed by a physician. If side effects occur, there is no need for excessive concern; however, symptoms should be closely monitored for any changes.

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What are inactivated vaccines?

In general, inactivated vaccines are prepared by killing pathogens using physical or chemical methods. Common types include inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, inactivated hepatitis A vaccine, inactivated poliovirus vaccine, inactivated rabies vaccine, and inactivated influenza vaccine. Before vaccination, individuals should truthfully report their health status, and after vaccination, they should monitor for local reactions.

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Can rabies be tested for?

In general, whether rabies can be tested depends on the purpose of the examination and the stage involved. After being scratched or bitten by an animal, immediately wash the wound with soap and water for at least 15 minutes, then disinfect it with iodine tincture. Receive rabies vaccination promptly, avoid strenuous exercise, keep the wound clean and dry, eat a light diet, and avoid alcohol and spicy foods.