"Bitten or Scratched? Here's Why You Shouldn't Ignore It"
Animal Bites - What You Need To Know:
Animal bites are more than just surface wounds: they can lead to serious infections, especially if the animal is unvaccinated or unknown. One of the most concerning risks is rabies, a deadly virus that affects the nervous system. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
- Bite or scratch from a stray or wild animal
- Animal acting strangely or aggressively
- Deep wound, bleeding, or puncture
- No prior rabies vaccination
What to Do Immediately After a Bite:
- Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water
- Apply antiseptic
- Cover the wound with a clean dressing
- Seek medical care as soon as possible
Why Rabies Vaccination Is Critical:
The rabies virus has no cure once symptoms appear. However, the virus is 100% preventable with timely vaccination. The rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) includes a series of rabies shots that must begin as soon as possible after the bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who should get a rabies vaccine?
Anyone bitten, scratched, or licked by an animal on broken skin
Veterinarians, animal handlers, or lab workers exposed to the virus
Travelers visiting rabies-endemic areas
Children or elderly people living with pets or stray animals nearby - How many doses are needed and on what schedule?
For post-exposure (after animal bite), if never vaccinated before:
4 doses: on days 0, 3, 7, and 14
A 5th dose on day 28 may be needed for immunocompromised individuals
For pre-exposure (preventive vaccination):
2 or 3 doses depending on the protocol (e.g., days 0 and 7 or 0, 7, and 21/28) - If I've been vaccinated before, do I need another shot if bitten?
Yes, if it's been more than 6months, usually 2 booster doses (day 0 and 3) are enough. - Can rabies be cured?
Unfortunately, no. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal.
Vaccination after exposure is the only way to prevent death.
At Doctor Lamai Clinic, we provide:
- Rabies vaccines in stock
- Immediate wound care
- Supportive, professional medical attention
Peace of Mind Starts Here: Don't wait or take chances. Whether you are bitten, scratched, or just unsure, getting checked by a doctor is always the right move. Rabies is preventable, and we're here to protect you.
Visit Doctor Lamai Clinic today for fast, friendly and professional care.
Tel/WhatsApp : +66 65 262 9396
www.doctorlamai.com
: Lamai beach road, Koh samui.