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Monkey claws scratch
Respected sir/maam🙏, today a monkey scratched my foot from his claws, there was no bleeding but I got a red mark (kinda superficial mark). In January this year i completed my 5 doses of anti rabies vaccine tetnus ( previously got deep scratches from my pet dog).Do I need to go through ARV TT again? And also my friend was scaring me that Monkey scratches can cause herp B virus and u need to take herp B virus antibiotics Valacyclovir or Acyclovir. I'm so scared, pls guide me sir/ma'am🙏
Answers (11)
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First, stay calm.
Since:
• It was a superficial scratch
• No bleeding
• You already completed full anti-rabies vaccine in January this year
You are considered recently vaccinated.
What to do now:
• Wash the area with soap and running water for 10–15 minutes
• Apply antiseptic
If skin is NOT broken → No rabies vaccine needed.
If skin is slightly broken → You only need 2 booster doses (Day 0 and Day 3).
No rabies immunoglobulin required.
Regarding “Herpes B virus”:
It is extremely rare and mainly seen in laboratory workers handling monkeys. Routine superficial scratches in public areas do NOT automatically require acyclovir or valacyclovir. Do not start antivirals without doctor advice.
TT is not needed again if you are already vaccinated recently.
Watch for:
• Increasing redness
• Swelling
• Fever
Otherwise, nothing to panic.
Based on your symptoms, this may require proper clinical assessment and prescription. You may book an online consultation with me for detailed evaluation and personalised treatment plan.
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Dear Patient,
Since the monkey scratch caused only a superficial red mark without bleeding, it is considered a Category II exposure. As you have already completed the full 5-dose anti-rabies vaccination course in January, you only require 2 booster doses of rabies vaccine (Day 0 and Day 3). Rabies Immunoglobulin is not required.
If you have taken a tetanus injection earlier this year, no repeat dose is needed.
Herpes B virus infection from routine monkey scratches in the community is extremely rare. There is no indication to start antiviral medicines like Valacyclovir or Acyclovir in your case.
Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water and apply antiseptic.
There is no need to panic. You are well protected.
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