Do you need a rabies vaccine if scratched by a cat?
Nov 09, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Rabies vaccine generally refers to the rabies vaccine. Usually, if the wound caused by a cat scratch is small, it may not be necessary to receive the rabies vaccine immediately; however, if the wound is large, the rabies vaccine should be administered. It is recommended to go to the hospital and receive the vaccine under a doctor's guidance. When treating the wound, thoroughly wash it first with soap and running water, and keep the wound dry and clean to prevent infection.
Rabies vaccine generally refers to the rabies virus vaccine. Under normal circumstances, if the wound caused by a cat scratch is small, rabies vaccination may not be immediately necessary; however, if the wound is large, a rabies vaccine should be administered. It is recommended to go to a hospital and receive the vaccine under a doctor's guidance. The analysis is as follows:
If the cat has been vaccinated against rabies and is still within the protection period, and the scratch wound is small with no bleeding, rabies vaccination may temporarily be unnecessary. However, proper cleaning and treatment of the wound are still required to reduce the risk of infection.
If scratched by a cat that has not been vaccinated against rabies, especially if the wound is deep and there is significant bleeding, rabies vaccination should be considered to prevent the onset of rabies. If there is substantial bleeding, apply gentle pressure to the wound using clean gauze or a towel until the bleeding stops. Seek immediate medical attention if bleeding cannot be controlled.
When treating the wound, thoroughly wash it first with soap and running water. Then, apply an appropriate antiseptic ointment as advised by a doctor, and keep the wound dry and clean to prevent infection.
