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Rabies vaccine
Hey yesterday one street dog lick on my finger for a second... although I can't see any wound on my finger..so shall I go for vaccination?? And i have already done 5 dose of vaccination 5 years back but on buttock and 2 booster on 2023 I m really worried from yesterday
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Clean the part of lick, no need of vaccination
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If no bite or scratch, no need of vaccine.
Clean the part licked very well.
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You had:
• A street dog lick your finger for a second
• No visible wound
• No bleeding
• Previously completed 5-dose rabies vaccine (5 years ago)
• Took 2 booster doses in 2023
This is medically considered NO RISK exposure if:
• Skin was intact
• No cuts / cracks / bleeding
• Only licking on normal skin
Rabies transmission requires:
• Bite with skin break
• Scratch causing bleeding
• Saliva contacting open wound or mucous membrane
Saliva on intact skin does NOT transmit rabies.
Additionally:
You are already previously vaccinated + boosted in 2023.
You have immune memory.
Even if this were minor exposure, you would only need 2 boosters — not full course.
But in this case:
Next Steps
✔ Wash the area with soap and water (even though intact skin)
✔ Observe the dog for 10 days if possible
✔ Do not start vaccination unnecessarily
Take vaccine only if:
• There was bleeding
• Saliva entered open wound
• Bite occurred
From your description — none happened.
Health Tips
✔ Rabies does NOT spread through intact skin
✔ Lick on normal skin = Category I exposure
✔ Previously vaccinated individuals have long immune memory
✔ Avoid frequent booster doses without indication
✔ Do not Google worst-case scenarios
You are safe based on what you described.
If you are still anxious or unsure whether there was any micro-abrasion, I recommend booking a short online consultation so we can review the exposure carefully and prevent unnecessary vaccination or stress.
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You need to evaluate properly first. Can you share the image where dog is lick ,bite etc.your risk is negligible If dog only lick.
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Dr. Gaurav Jaiswal
General Physician
7 yrs exp
Jhansi
Avoid fried and spicy food
Water intake more
Kindly do connect and consult
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Dr. Vetsa Sri Krishna Chaitanya
General Physician
7 yrs exp
Rajahmundry
Need a few more details please consult for further evaluation and treatment
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Dr. Kamal Kumar
General Physician
7 yrs exp
Rewari
No need to worry
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Dr. Anuj Mothsra
General Practitioner
7 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.