Do I Need to Get the Rabies Vaccine if I’m Bitten or Scratched by a Dog or Cat?
Do I Need to Get the Rabies Vaccine if Im Bitten or Scratched by a Dog or Cat?
If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or cat while traveling or living in Koh Samui, its important to take it seriously even if the wound seems minor. Rabies is a life-threatening but preventable disease. The safest and most effective way to protect yourself is to get the rabies vaccine as soon as possible after exposure.
Why the Rabies Vaccine Is Important
Rabies is a viral infection that affects the central nervous system. Once symptoms appear, the disease is almost always fatal. However, prompt vaccination can prevent the virus from causing illness, which is why immediate action is crucial.
Even small bites or scratches can expose you to the virus, especially if the animal is unvaccinated or its health status is unknown.
What to Do Right After a Bite or Scratch?
-Wash the wound immediately with plenty of soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.
-Apply an antiseptic like povidone-iodine if available.
-Visit a medical clinic as soon as possible to start the post-exposure vaccine series.
- you may also receive rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) on the same day.
The Vaccine Schedule
The standard post-exposure vaccine schedule is usually:
Day 0 (the day of the bite) first dose + possibly RIG
Day 3 second dose
Day 7 third dose
Day 14 fourth dose
Day 28 fifth dose (in some cases)
If you have been vaccinated previously, you may only need booster doses (Day 0 and Day 3).
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention?
-If the bite is deep or near the head/neck
-If the animal is stray or unvaccinated
-If you cant observe the animal for 10 days
-If theres any bleeding or broken skin
Rabies Risk in Thailand
Thailand including Koh Samui is considered a rabies-endemic country. While many pets are vaccinated, stray animals are still common. Thats why even small scratches should not be ignored.
Where to Get Rabies Vaccine in Koh Samui
If you are in Koh Samui, Doctor Lamai Clinic is a trusted and convenient option for post-exposure rabies care:
Google Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XS41gYoRoV5H7GWHA?g_st=ipc
Address: 124/254 Moo 3, Lamai Beach, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84310
Phone / WhatsApp: +66 65 262 9396
Email: doctorlamaiclinic@gmail.com
Website: www.doctorlamai.com
Opening Hours: Daily, 09:00 19:00
Services offered:
Rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin (RIG)
Wound care and suturing
Health check-ups and lab tests
Home visits for those unable to travel
Doctor Lamai Clinic provides English-speaking staff, quick service for travelers, and professional medical care for emergencies like animal bites.
Final Advice for Travelers
Dont wait for symptoms to appear.
Start vaccination immediately.
Keep your vaccination card and complete the full series.
If traveling to another country during the series, you can continue your doses there.
Getting the rabies vaccine early is a simple step that can save your life.
References
World Health Organization (WHO) Rabies Fact Sheet
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Rabies Postexposure Prophylaxis
Thai Ministry of Public Health National Rabies Control Program
