Based on what you’ve described, this is NOT rabies. Let me be very clear and reassuring here.
• You completed a full intradermal rabies vaccination course on 18 October from a government hospital.
• On 30 December, you had a minor scratch and then received booster doses (Day 0 and Day 3) on 5 Jan and 8 Jan.
• Even though there was a 7-day delay, this does NOT reduce protection in someone who is already fully vaccinated.
The pricking/tingling sensation near the throat or submandibular area that comes and goes is not a rabies symptom. Rabies symptoms do not fluctuate, do not come as mild tingling for days, and do not start like this in a vaccinated person.
This sensation is most consistent with:
• Anxiety-related nerve hypersensitivity
• Muscle tension or cervical/neck nerve irritation
• Submandibular salivary gland irritation
• Stress-induced paresthesia (very common in people worried about rabies)
Rabies pain is severe, progressive, and rapidly worsening, not intermittent needle-like sensations for 10 days.
Next Steps
What you should do now:
• No further rabies vaccine or RIG is needed
• Observe the area locally; if there is:
• Swelling, fever, or worsening pain → see a doctor
• If anxiety is severe:
• A short course of anti-anxiety support or reassurance consult helps a lot
• If the sensation persists beyond 2–3 weeks, a simple evaluation for:
• Neck posture issues
• Local gland inflammation
•
Vitamin B12 deficiency
may be done (none are dangerous)
There is no test required for rabies, because clinically and epidemiologically this is already protected exposure.
Health Tips
• Stop repeatedly checking symptoms online (this worsens nerve sensations)
• Keep good hydration and warm fluids
• Gentle neck stretching and posture correction
• Deep breathing exercises when the pricking starts
• Remind yourself: rabies cannot occur after correct vaccination + boosters
⸻
I understand how frightening rabies anxiety can be, but medically you are safe.
If you’d like, an online consultation can help calm your fears and address this nerve-related discomfort properly, so you don’t have to keep worrying alone.