Is it okay not to receive rabies immunoglobulin for a category III rabies wound?
Protein refers to rabies immunoglobulin. For category III exposures, skipping the administration of protein carries certain risks, and it is recommended to inject rabies immunoglobulin.
For category I and category II exposures, protective antibodies can be generated by injecting rabies immunoglobulin. In cases of category III exposure, rabies immunoglobulin should be administered directly into the site of the animal bite wound.
Category III exposure wounds are those that bleed and are deep. After injection of rabies immunoglobulin, antibodies do not develop immediately; it usually takes about 14 days for antibodies to appear. Rabies immunoglobulin is a passive immune preparation capable of providing specific protective antibodies to the human body. Additionally, it's important to inject rabies immunoglobulin directly into the wound site to effectively prevent rabies virus from entering the body through the wound.
This is especially critical for patients with immunodeficiency or those who have been taking immunosuppressive agents long-term, as well as in cases involving exposure to the head or face, where rabies immunoglobulin should be administered immediately.
It is recommended to receive injections at a reputable hospital emergency department. Avoid blind or improper use, as this may delay proper treatment.