Can you get rabies from being licked by a pet dog?

Feb 06, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Li Feng

Introduction

Whether a person can get rabies from a pet dog's lick depends on the specific circumstances. Generally, individuals with intact skin are not at risk of contracting rabies, but if the skin is broken or damaged, transmission may be possible. 1. Intact skin: If the person's skin is unbroken and there are no serious wounds, and if the pet dog has been vaccinated against rabies, the person will not become infected with rabies.

Whether a person can contract rabies from a pet dog's lick depends on specific circumstances. Generally, individuals with intact skin are not at risk of contracting rabies, but if the skin has any breaks or wounds, transmission of the rabies virus may occur.

1. Intact Skin

If a person’s skin is completely intact without serious injuries and the pet dog has been vaccinated against rabies, the individual will not become infected with rabies nor develop severe complications.

2. Broken Skin

If a person has broken or bleeding skin, or suffers from skin ulcers, there is a significant risk of viral transmission if the pet dog carries the rabies virus. In such cases, the wound should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected immediately, followed by administration of the rabies vaccine. Additionally, rabies immunoglobulin or antiserum may be used in combination to reduce or prevent the likelihood of developing rabies.

If a person’s skin is broken, ulcerated, or otherwise compromised, it is advisable to avoid contact with pet dogs as much as possible to minimize the risk of infection.

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Are there any specific symptoms of rabies?

Rabies has clear and specific symptoms, mainly characterized by abnormal sensations during the prodromal stage and typical hydrophobia, aversion to wind, and other signs during the excitation stage. The disease progresses rapidly and is highly distinctive, with an extremely high fatality rate once symptoms appear. After being bitten, scratched, or exposed to a suspected infected animal, medical attention should be sought immediately regardless of whether symptoms have developed. Symptoms typically appear from several days to dozens of days after exposure.

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What are the side effects of rabies immune globulin?

In general, possible side effects during the use of rabies immunoglobulin may include redness and swelling at the injection site, skin allergic reactions, mild fever, headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Rabies immunoglobulin should be used strictly as directed by a physician. If side effects occur, there is no need for excessive concern; however, symptoms should be closely monitored for any changes.

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What are inactivated vaccines?

In general, inactivated vaccines are prepared by killing pathogens using physical or chemical methods. Common types include inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, inactivated hepatitis A vaccine, inactivated poliovirus vaccine, inactivated rabies vaccine, and inactivated influenza vaccine. Before vaccination, individuals should truthfully report their health status, and after vaccination, they should monitor for local reactions.

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Can rabies be tested for?

In general, whether rabies can be tested depends on the purpose of the examination and the stage involved. After being scratched or bitten by an animal, immediately wash the wound with soap and water for at least 15 minutes, then disinfect it with iodine tincture. Receive rabies vaccination promptly, avoid strenuous exercise, keep the wound clean and dry, eat a light diet, and avoid alcohol and spicy foods.