Is it still effective to get the rabies vaccine more than 72 hours after being bitten by a dog?
May 17, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
It is generally effective to receive the rabies vaccine more than 72 hours after being bitten by a dog, although the efficacy of the vaccine may be somewhat reduced. Rabies is an acute infectious disease caused by the rabies virus, commonly transmitted through bites from carnivorous animals such as dogs, wolves, and cats. Clinical manifestations typically include specific symptoms such as hydrophobia and aerophobia. There is a strict time window for administering the rabies vaccine following a dog bite.
It is generally still effective to receive the rabies vaccine more than 72 hours after being bitten by a dog, although the efficacy may be somewhat reduced. The specific details are as follows:
Rabies is an acute infectious disease caused by the rabies virus, commonly transmitted through bites from carnivorous animals such as dogs, wolves, and cats. Typical clinical manifestations include specific symptoms like hydrophobia (fear of water) and aerophobia (fear of wind). There is a relatively strict time window for administering the rabies vaccine after being bitten by a dog. Generally, patients should receive the injection within 6 hours after the bite, when the protective efficacy can reach up to 99%. If administration is delayed beyond 24 hours, the effectiveness typically drops to around 75%. Even if vaccination occurs more than 72 hours after the bite, it can still provide some protection, though the efficacy will likely be diminished. Given the severe impact this disease can have on the human body, individuals bitten or scratched by animals such as dogs or cats that may carry the rabies virus should seek prompt medical attention at a正规 hospital within 12 hours and receive the rabies vaccine under a doctor's guidance. It is best not to exceed 72 hours, to avoid reduced vaccine effectiveness.
It is recommended that individuals minimize contact with carnivorous animals in daily life to prevent scratches or bites. In the event of a scratch or bite, wounds should be treated immediately to prevent adverse consequences.
