URGENT CARE AFTER SUSPECTED EXPOSURE TO A RABID ANIMAL
Rabies (post-exposure)
Urgent post-exposure care after a suspected bite or scratch from a rabid animal, using vaccine and immunoglobulin to prevent rabies — a near-universally fatal infection if not treated in time.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Rabies Post-Exposure Care
Rabies is a viral infection of the brain and nervous system that is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but completely preventable if appropriate care is started promptly after exposure. The virus is most often transmitted through bites, scratches or licks on broken skin from infected animals — particularly dogs in India. Post-exposure care includes immediate and thorough wound washing, rabies immunoglobulin in selected cases, and a structured course of rabies vaccine. Speed is critical — every hour matters, especially for high-risk exposures. People at ongoing risk such as veterinarians and animal handlers benefit from pre-exposure vaccination. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides urgent post-exposure rabies care and counselling at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Bite, scratch or saliva exposure from an infected dog, cat or wild animal
- Exposure to bats, monkeys or other wildlife in endemic areas
- Stray animal bites, particularly in unvaccinated dogs
- Inadequate or delayed post-exposure care
- Lack of pre-exposure vaccination in high-risk professions
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Wash the wound immediately with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes
Based on exposure history; laboratory testing is mainly post-mortem
Wound washing, rabies immunoglobulin in selected cases and rabies vaccine series
The sooner treatment begins, the better the outcome
Vaccination of pets, avoiding stray animal contact and pre-exposure vaccination for high-risk groups
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad — urgent post-exposure care
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Immediate Wound Washing & Vaccine + Immunoglobulin
The most effective approach is immediate, thorough wound washing followed by rabies immunoglobulin in high-risk exposures and the full rabies vaccine series. Started promptly, this regimen is almost 100% effective in preventing rabies.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews the nature of exposure, type of animal, wound characteristics and prior vaccination status, and decides the post-exposure regimen.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A complete plan is created including immediate wound care, rabies immunoglobulin where indicated and the full vaccine schedule.
- 3
Medical Management
Thorough wound washing, infiltration of rabies immunoglobulin around the wound in selected cases, and structured rabies vaccination.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Follow-up to ensure the full vaccine course is completed, the wound heals well and counselling is provided on future prevention.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Immediate Wound Washing
Thorough washing of the bite or scratch with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes significantly reduces the risk of rabies.
Rabies Immunoglobulin
Specific immunoglobulin is infiltrated around the wound in high-risk exposures to provide immediate passive protection.
Rabies Vaccine Series
A structured course of rabies vaccine is given on specific days to build long-lasting immunity against the virus.
Avoiding Delay in Treatment
Treatment is most effective when started as soon as possible after exposure — every hour matters.
Pre-Exposure Vaccination for High-Risk Individuals
People with high ongoing risk such as veterinarians, animal handlers and laboratory workers benefit from pre-exposure vaccination.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure about your condition?
Compassionate, confidential consultations — Book your appointment today.