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Do I need Anti Rabies Booster again?
Hi, I was scratched by a stray cat yesterday. Previously, I completed a full 5-dose rabies vaccination series after a first cat scratch, and I received two booster doses on January 25 and 28 this year after a second cat scratch. The recent scratch is minor with no bleeding. Given that the cat is a stray, do I need any additional rabies treatment or booster shots, or is my current vaccination history enough for protection?
Answers (6)
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Check titre value for antirabies vaccine
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I would suggest you to get your check up on antibody titer...and
It's better if you get 3 shots of vaccine... because we can't take chances with rabies...right...
Anyways you are already protected with prior vaccination...so I would say.. your good either way...
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Dr. Sandeep Yadav
Veterinarian
12 yrs exp
Gurgaon
Hello dear,
your concern is imp , nd many people are likely to have a similar question,
So, given your detailed rabies vaccination history — a complete 5-dose post-exposure series followed by two booster doses in Janury this year —You currently have good protective immunity against rabies. Immunity level can be cross checked by doing Rabies-Antibody-Titer-Test , becos it's potentially a fatal disease.
For individuals who have been previously vaccinated, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends two booster doses (on Day 0 and Day 3) only if there's a new exposure. However, in your case, the recent scratch is minor, superficial nd did not bleed,, which is generally considered a low-risk exposure.
Next Steps
That said, since the cat is a stray and can-NOT be observed or tested, it’s always best to err on the side of caution.
Health Tips
Recommend you consult your physician or visit a nearby healthcare facility to assess whether an additional booster is necessary based on your clinical examination and risk profile.
Stay safe,
Dr. SY
🙏
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Dr. Devendra Gupta
Veterinary Physician
15 yrs exp
Jabalpur
Most of the things are covered.
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Dr. M. Madeena Begum
Veterinary Surgeon
12 yrs exp
Chennai
Since your last vaccination is only few months back, you can check your titer value for the immunity status. No need for extra boosters.
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Dr. Lovish Gupta
Veterinarian for Small Animals
6 yrs exp
Gurgaon
Get your rabies antibody titer test done. If the antibodies are within recommended range u don't need to worry
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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.