Dog Bite & Rabies Management
Rabies is a 100% fatal but 100% preventable disease. If you or your child has been bitten or scratched by a dog, cat, or wild animal, seek medical attention immediately.
Immediate First Aid (At Home)
- Wash the wound vigorously with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.
- Apply an antiseptic like Povidone-Iodine (Betadine).
- DO NOT stitch or tightly bandage the wound immediately.
WHO Bite Categories
Touching or feeding animals, licks on intact skin.
Action: Wash skin. No vaccine needed.
Nibbling of uncovered skin, minor scratches without bleeding.
Action: Wound washing + Rabies Vaccine immediately.
Single or multiple bites/scratches with bleeding, licks on broken skin.
Action: Wound washing + Rabies Vaccine + HRIG immediately.
Official Rabies Immunization Guidelines
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)
If you have already been bitten or scratched.
HRIG (Immune Globulin)
For severe bites, HRIG is injected directly around the wound on Day 0 to provide instant antibodies.
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)
For pet owners, vets, and animal feeders to build immunity before a bite happens.
If bitten in the future after receiving PrEP:
You will NOT need HRIG, and you only need 2 booster doses (Day 0 and Day 3) instead of the full 5-dose schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first thing I should do after a dog or cat bite?
Immediately wash the wound vigorously with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes. Apply an antiseptic like Betadine. Do not cover the wound tightly, and contact a doctor immediately.
How many rabies injections are required?
The standard schedule for an unvaccinated person requires 4 to 5 doses given on Days 0, 3, 7, 14, and 28.
What is HRIG and do I need it?
Human Rabies Immune Globulin (HRIG) provides instant antibodies while the vaccine takes time to work. It is mandatory for Category III bites (deep scratches, bleeding wounds, or licks on broken skin).
Can I delay the vaccine by a few days?
No. Rabies is a 100% fatal disease once symptoms appear. The first dose must be administered as soon as possible after the bite.
Do I need the vaccine if a pet dog bites me?
Yes. Even if the pet is vaccinated, no vaccine is 100% effective in animals. It is highly recommended to start your PEP schedule immediately.