Download FREE Practo app
Get ₹200 HealthCash
Rabid vaccine
5 years back i have taken 5 rabies vaccine on my buttock side maybe gluteal area not sure and 2 years back had taken 2 rabies booster on my arm... 6 days back one stray dog licked my finger for a second near nail tips but I can't see any blood or scratch at that place only dryness in the skin that's it.. but I m having really bad anxiety after reading about rabies so thinking to shall o go for vaccine or not and if yes then take full or booster only..
Answers (13)
Didn't find the answer you are looking for?
Talk to experienced doctor online and get your health questions answered in just 5 minutes.
Let’s assess this clearly and scientifically.
Exposure described:
• Dog licked your finger
• No visible wound
• No bleeding
• No scratch
• Only dry skin
• Brief contact
Rabies transmission requires:
• Bite that breaks skin
• Saliva entering an open wound
• Saliva contacting fresh mucosal surfaces
Intact dry skin is NOT a transmission route.
Even if there was mild dryness near nail tips, unless there was a fresh bleeding wound, this is Category I exposure (no risk).
Also:
• You completed full vaccination 5 years ago
• Took boosters 2 years ago
That means you are already immunologically primed.
This scenario does not require vaccine.
Your current distress is anxiety-driven, not exposure-driven.
Next Steps
✔ Do NOT take rabies vaccine
✔ No booster required
✔ Wash hands normally with soap
✔ Observe the dog only if possible (but not mandatory here)
Vaccine is recommended only if:
• There is broken skin
• Visible wound
• Bleeding scratch
• Bite
None of these occurred.
Taking unnecessary boosters will reinforce anxiety pattern rather than protect you medically.
Health Tips
✔ Avoid reading uncontrolled online rabies stories
✔ Understand: Rabies does NOT transmit through intact skin
✔ Repeated vaccination without indication is not needed
✔ Work on anxiety management (deep breathing, distraction)
Medically speaking: your risk here is zero.
If you are experiencing repeated fear after minimal exposures, we may need to address health anxiety rather than infection risk. I can help you differentiate real exposure from perceived risk clearly and permanently.
Booking an online consultation will help break this anxiety cycle in a structured and evidence-based way.
Answered
Let others know if this answer was helpful
As per your history, a stray dog only licked your finger and there was no visible cut, scratch, or bleeding. If the skin was intact, this is considered Category I exposure and does not require rabies vaccination.
Since you have already completed a full course in the past and also taken boosters 2 years ago, you are previously vaccinated. In case of true exposure (bite/scratch with skin breach), only 2 booster doses (Day 0 and Day 3) are required, not full course and no rabies immunoglobulin.
In your present situation, if there is absolutely no wound or broken skin, no vaccine is required. Anxiety after reading about rabies is common, but based on what you described, risk is negligible.
Next Steps
Wash the area thoroughly with soap and running water (if not already done).
Observe for any unnoticed scratch or wound.
If no skin break is present, no vaccination is needed.
If any doubt about skin breach, consult nearby hospital for assessment and possible 2-dose booster schedule.
Health Tips
Rabies transmission requires saliva contact with broken skin or mucosa. Licking over intact skin does not transmit rabies. Avoid overthinking; monitor calmly. If anxiety persists, consult a physician for reassurance.
Answered
Let others know if this answer was 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.