Do I need a rabies vaccine if bitten by a sugar glider?

Generally, if bitten by a sugar glider, rabies vaccination is recommended. If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is advised. The detailed analysis is as follows:

Sugar gliders, as small mammals, may potentially carry the rabies virus. Rabies is a fatal viral disease that is almost incurable once infection occurs and has an extremely high mortality rate. Therefore, based on the principle of prevention, if bitten by a sugar glider—especially if the wound is deep, bleeding, or carries other infection risks—it is important to receive the rabies vaccine promptly to prevent rabies virus infection. Rabies vaccination is indicated in any situation involving potential exposure to the rabies virus, such as animal bites, scratches, or contact of animal saliva with broken skin or mucous membranes. In these cases, receiving the rabies vaccine is a necessary preventive measure.

For safety, after being bitten by a sugar glider, immediate wound management should be performed, including thorough wound washing and disinfection.