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Do I need a rabbies vaccine?
I got licked and touched by a dog 3 days ago. Should I get the rabbies vaccine?
Just on a note i recently got my 3 doses of rabbies vaccine in april.
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Dear Practo User.
Thanks for sending across your query.
Since you completed a full rabies vaccination course recently in April, you’re considered protected. For minor exposures like licking or touching, no further vaccine is typically needed. Just monitor for symptoms and maintain good hygiene.
Next Steps
For further details you can consult with me in Dr. Monga medi clinic or consult me directly by taking a consultation on Practo.
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I can definitely help you over this being a general physician
You can consult with me online on Practo or Contact on eight three one eight four six nine eight eight six for proper diagnosis, conclusion and management
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If you received all 3 doses of the rabies vaccine in April, you’re considered pre-exposure vaccinated, which offers strong protection. If the dog that licked and touched you was healthy, vaccinated, and the skin wasn’t broken (no bite, scratch, or open wound), then no further action is typically needed. However, if the dog’s vaccination status is unknown, if the lick involved mucous membranes (like eyes, mouth, or an open wound), or if you’re unsure about skin integrity, it’s best to take two booster doses (on Day 0 and Day 3) may be recommended in such cases.
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You do not need the rabies vaccine again right now, if:
The dog was healthy and alive at the time
There was no bite or scratch breaking the skin
The contact was only through intact skin (no open wounds)
You are considered pre-exposure vaccinated, which offers strong protection.
If you had only licks or touch on unbroken skin, no further action is needed.
Next Steps
booster dose needed Only if:
The dog bit/scratched you and broke the skin
The dog is suspected to be rabid
You’re immunocompromised
In such cases, you'd get 2 booster doses (Day 0 and Day 3), not the full 5-dose series.
Health Tips
Let me know if there was any wound, mucosal contact, or if the dog seemed unwell.
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You may take two doses (if at all) .
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You need to complete the course
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Not necessarily needed if fully vaccinated within last six months
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Incomplete info. Did it just lick or bite ?
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You don't need any further vaccine at this time.
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Dr. Manoj Kumar
General Physician
9 yrs exp
Dehradun
Need few more details
Kindly consult
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Dr. Gaurav Jaiswal
General Physician
6 yrs exp
Jhansi
Avoid fried food and spicy food
Water intake more
Green leafy vegetables and fruits
Fiber meal
Do connect and consult
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Dr. Gurteshwar Singh
General Physician
3 yrs exp
Patiala
No need
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Dr. Chaithra H
General Physician
5 yrs exp
Bangalore
Not required
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Dr. Anuj Mothsra
General Physician
6 yrs exp
Jhunjhunu
Can help you, kindly consult and provide detailed history for proper diagnosis and further management
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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.