1. Wash the wound immediately
Wash and flush the wound thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes. Do not wait until you reach a clinic or hospital before washing the wound.
2. Clean the wound
After thorough washing, an iodine-containing antiseptic can be applied if available. Avoid applying irritants or traditional substances to the wound.
3. Get assessed as soon as possible
Seek medical care promptly after a bite, scratch, or saliva exposure to broken skin or mucous membranes. A healthcare professional can assess whether rabies PEP is recommended.
4. Post-exposure vaccination may be needed
Depending on the exposure and your previous rabies vaccination history, rabies vaccine may be recommended as part of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).
5. RIG may be needed for severe exposures
Rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) may be indicated for Category III exposures, including bites or scratches through the skin, or saliva on broken skin or mucous membranes. Previous vaccination history also affects whether RIG is needed.
Based on WHO rabies guidance, vaccination guidance, and animal-bite guidance. These are general educational references; no individual assessment or clinician review is claimed.
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