Download FREE Practo app
Get ₹200 HealthCash
Do I need more doses of ARV?
Hi Doctors,
I was recently bitten by a stray dog on 28th May 2026.
So I went to govt Hospital to take the anti rabies vaccine. My vaccination schedules were
29th May
1st April
5th April
26th April
After taking the 3rd dose on 5th April 2026 , I was again bitten by a dog on 20th April, not the same dog who bitten me previously
I completed the vaccination by taking the 4th dose on 26th April.
Do I need to take more anti rabies vaccine for protection? Or I am completely safe and no need for more vaccines. Please help me I am very stressed.
Answers (32)
Didn't find the answer you are looking for?
Talk to experienced doctor online and get your health questions answered in just 5 minutes.
You can consult me directly on Practo, or reach out via WhatsApp:
Eight Seven Six Two Seven Four Nine Nine Seven Four
I’ll guide you step-by-step with easy-to-follow treatment plans.
Early consultation helps avoid complications — feel free to connect.
Only whatsapp message no calls
Answered
1/1 people found this helpful
If you completed your 4-dose schedule → you are protected
Second bite during schedule → no restart needed
No need for more doses now in most cases.
Next Steps
but I need to see your wound, is it category 3 or not?. Did you take RIg or not?. Message me or visit any other doctor for more consultation.
Answered
1/1 people found this helpful
Since you were bitten again on April 20th while your primary vaccination course (started after the March 29th bite) was still ongoing, your body was already in the process of building an immune response. Completing your 4th dose on April 26th as scheduled effectively covers both exposures. You are clinically safe, and there is no requirement to restart the course or take additional doses for the second bite
Next Steps
Course Completion: You mentioned taking 4 doses. If your doctor originally prescribed a 5-dose schedule (Day 0, 3, 7, 14, 28), make sure to take the final 5th dose on the scheduled date in May. If it was a 4-dose (ID) schedule, you are already done.
Wound Observation: Ensure the wound from the April 20th bite was washed thoroughly with soap and water for 15 minutes. If there is any pus, increasing redness, or persistent pain, consult for local wound management.
Anxiety Management: You are medically protected. There is no documented case of vaccine failure when the schedule is followed this closely. You can relax and resume your normal activities.
Health Tips
For a detailed discussion on the difference between 4-dose and 5-dose schedules, or to review your wound healing progress, you can consult me directly through my profile.
Answered
1/1 people found this helpful
Articles you may like
Tell us what's troubling you
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.