What Steps to Take If You've Been Exposed to an animal with rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. If you’ve been in contact with an animal suspected of having rabies, it’s crucial to act quickly and follow the appropriate steps to protect your health. This blog post will guide you through the necessary actions to take if you find yourself in this alarming situation.

Understanding Rabies

Rabies is primarily transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, often via bites or scratches. The most common carriers of rabies include bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes, but domestic animals like dogs and cats can also be infected.

70% of human rabies deaths in the U.S are a direct result of a bite from a bat with rabies according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

The virus travels through the nervous system and can take weeks to months to manifest symptoms, which is why immediate action is essential if you suspect exposure.

Immediate Actions to Take

If you believe you’ve been exposed to a rabid animal, follow these steps without delay:

1. Wash the Wound Thoroughly

   If you’ve been bitten or scratched, the first step is to wash the area with soap and water for at least 15 minutes. This helps to remove the virus from the skin and reduces the risk of infection.

2. Disinfect the wound

   Use an alcohol or iodine based antiseptic if available.

   
   

3. Seek Medical Attention

   After cleaning the wound, it’s vital to seek medical help immediately in the country that you are in. Visit a healthcare provider or an emergency room, especially if the animal is suspected to be rabid.

   
   

4. Provide Details to Your Healthcare Provider

   Be prepared to give your healthcare provider as much information as possible about the incident. This includes details about the animal, the nature of the contact, and your vaccination history and your medical history (especially if you have a weakened immune system).

   
   

5. Follow Medical Advice

   Your healthcare provider may recommend a rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) treatment, which typically includes a series of rabies vaccinations and possibly a dose of rabies immune globulin.

   
   

Understanding Rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)

Rabies PEP is a critical treatment that can prevent the onset of the disease if administered promptly after exposure. Here’s what you need to know:

• Timing is Crucial

PEP should be started as soon as possible after exposure. The effectiveness of the treatment diminishes significantly if delayed.

• Vaccination Schedule

The rabies vaccination schedule usually consists of four doses administered on days 0, 3, 7, and 14 after the initial exposure. In some cases, a fifth dose may be given on day 28.

• Rabies Immune Globulin (RIG)

In certain situations, your healthcare provider may also administer RIG, which provides immediate antibodies against the virus. This is typically given only for high-risk exposures.

Monitoring for Symptoms

After exposure and treatment, it’s essential to monitor for any symptoms of rabies. Early symptoms can be vague and may include:

• Fever

• Headache

• Weakness or discomfort

• Anxiety or confusion

  
  

As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can develop, including:

• Insomnia

• Paralysis

• Hallucinations

• Hydrophobia (fear of water)

  
  

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

If you are returning to the United Kingdom after being in contact with an animal potentially with rabies

Go to A&E

Travel clinics cannot provide the rabies vaccines for people who need post exposure treatment.

Information needed in A&E

• Date of Exposure

• Country of Exposure

• Species of animal

• Site of Exposure

• Exposure Risk (bite, scratch, lick)

• Are you immunocompromised? (weakened immune system)

• Did you receive any doses of the rabies vaccine before you went on holiday?

• If you received rabies treatment abroad, bring proof and photos of the products

Reporting the Incident

In many regions, it’s required to report any potential rabies exposure to local health authorities. This helps track rabies cases and can assist in controlling outbreaks.

Rabies is a notifiable animal disease in the United kingdom.

Preventing Future Exposures

While it’s impossible to eliminate the risk of rabies entirely, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of exposure in the future:

1. Vaccinate Pets

   Ensure that your pets are vaccinated against rabies and keep their vaccinations up to date.

   
   

2. Avoid Wild Animals

   Do not approach or attempt to handle wild animals, especially those that appear sick or are acting strangely.

   
   

3. Educate Yourself and Others

   Learn about rabies and educate your family and friends about the risks and prevention methods.

   
   

4. Secure Your Property

   Take measures to keep wild animals away from your home, such as securing refuse and sealing entry points.

   
   

Conclusion

Being in contact with a rabid animal can be a frightening experience, but knowing the right steps to take can make a significant difference in your health outcomes. Always prioritize immediate medical attention and follow the recommended guidelines for rabies post-exposure prophylaxis.

By understanding rabies and taking preventive measures, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from this deadly disease.

A warning sign indicating rabies risk in a natural area

Stay informed, stay safe, and remember that prompt action is your best defence against rabies.