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Rabies Scare
I was bit by a stray cat on 10th June and went to the hospital within the next 15 minutes to get my rabies shot and HRIG. Received the next shot on day 3 but had to delay day 7 due to another medical procedure, resumed that on day 11 and adjusted the other shots. I feel itchy on the bite site (on my heel) when I think about symptoms but have not got any other symptoms. Due to moving this leg so much, I feel I have additional muscular pain which is making me further think I have rabies. Should I get a test done to be reassured or am I just overthinking?
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✅ What You Did Right
Bitten on June 10
HRIG and first vaccine dose within 15 minutes – this is perfect and maximally protective.
Day 3 vaccine dose received – ✅
Day 7 was delayed to Day 11 – while not ideal, a short delay is allowed and doesn't invalidate the protection.
Rest of the doses adjusted and completed – ✅ Excellent.
Next Steps
🚫 You Do Not Have Classic Rabies Symptoms:
No fever, no behavioral changes
No hypersensitivity, tingling that progresses upward, or hydrophobia
No neurological symptoms
Rabies has a typical incubation of 3–12 weeks (rarely shorter), and early symptoms would not be limited to localized itching and muscle pain, especially when they come only when you're thinking about it.
Health Tips
✅ What You Can Do Now:
Gently massage/stretch the leg to relieve muscular pain.
Avoid reading symptoms online — it fuels anxiety.
Try guided breathing exercises or distraction techniques.
Stay hydrated, sleep well, and avoid overexerting the leg.
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All Done Right...
Itching at bite mark is not a certain Sign of Rabies... (Though this may be one of the signs)
Next Steps
Did the Itching start after a few days of the bite or Was it there from the beginning or is it presenting Lately? If it was from the beginning and Since you have already taken HRIG and The necessary treatment so you are safe.....
Just Relax...
Health Tips
You can Contact me If necessary...
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Hi..Based on your description, you have taken the appropriate steps after the cat bite — receiving rabies immunoglobulin (HRIG) and the anti-rabies vaccine (ARV) within 15 minutes is ideal. Delaying the day 7 dose but resuming on day 11 and adjusting the schedule afterward is still considered acceptable. Minor delays do not usually affect protection, especially if HRIG was given on time. Itching at the healed bite site and muscular pain due to overuse or stress are common and not specific signs of rabies.
Next Steps
Complete the remaining doses of the vaccine as per the adjusted schedule.
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