I received a vaccine after being bitten by a dog before. Do I need to get vaccinated again if bitten once more?

Feb 07, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
Here, "vaccine" generally refers to the rabies vaccine. If someone was previously bitten by a dog and received the rabies vaccine, whether they need another shot after being bitten again usually depends on the timing of their last vaccination. After being bitten by a dog, if the person has previously received the rabies vaccine, the decision on treatment should be based on when the last dose was administered. The protective effect of the rabies vaccine in humans typically lasts for 3 months.

The term "vaccine" here generally refers to the rabies vaccine. Whether another rabies vaccination is needed after being bitten by a dog again, following a previous vaccination due to a prior dog bite, usually depends on the timing of the last vaccination.

After being bitten by a dog, if the person has previously received the rabies vaccine, the management plan should be determined based on when the last dose was administered. The rabies vaccine provides effective protection for about 3 months, and protective antibodies may persist to some extent for up to 3 years. If a person is bitten again within 6 months after completing the full vaccination series, re-vaccination is generally not required. If bitten between 6 months and 1 year after full immunization, one should receive a booster dose on day 0 and day 3. If bitten between 1 and 3 years after full immunization, booster doses should be given on days 0, 3, and 7. If bitten more than 3 years after completing the initial series, a complete new course of rabies vaccination is required.

For more specific recommendations, individuals should consult a healthcare professional.