A rabid rat bit – what should you do? - briefly
Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water, then contact a healthcare professional without delay to begin rabies post‑exposure prophylaxis. Prompt medical evaluation is essential to prevent infection.
A rabid rat bit – what should you do? - in detail
If a rodent suspected of carrying rabies bites you, act without delay.
First, wash the wound thoroughly with running water and soap for at least 15 seconds. Rinse to remove saliva and debris; do not scrub aggressively, as this may damage tissue.
Second, apply a broad‑spectrum antiseptic (e.g., povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine) after cleaning. Cover the site with a sterile dressing to control bleeding and prevent infection.
Third, obtain professional medical evaluation immediately. Contact emergency services or visit the nearest urgent‑care facility. A clinician will assess the bite, determine the likelihood of rabies exposure, and decide on post‑exposure prophylaxis (PEP).
If PEP is indicated, the regimen includes:
- Rabies immune globulin (RIG) infiltrated around the wound, with any remaining volume administered intramuscularly.
- A series of rabies vaccine doses on days 0, 3, 7, 14, and 28 (or as per local protocol).
Fourth, report the incident to local public‑health authorities. Provide details about the animal’s appearance, behavior, and location to facilitate surveillance and possible capture for laboratory testing.
Fifth, monitor the wound for signs of infection—redness, swelling, pus, or increasing pain—and return to medical care if any develop.
Finally, follow the complete vaccination schedule even if the animal later tests negative, because rabies incubation can exceed several weeks. Adherence to the full protocol eliminates the fatal risk associated with this viral disease.