Hi sir I get a stray cat exposure...small scratch with little blood.. sadly I take vaccine after 20 days they gave me 3 injection on my left arm.and one teatnus..course like 0 ,3,7 🥲am I safe...I afraid is it to late for vaccination...🥲😶🌫️
Answers (15)
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1. You got a scratch from a stray cat with a little blood.
This type of exposure is considered Category II or III depending on depth, but in both cases, rabies vaccine is recommended.
You did the right thing by taking the vaccine.
2. You took the vaccine after 20 days.
Is it too late?
Answer: No — it is NOT too late. You are still protected.**
Rabies vaccine can be started even weeks after exposure, because:
• The rabies virus (if present) travels very slowly through nerves
• It usually takes weeks to months to reach the brain
• Vaccine given even after 10–30 days still prevents the illness
So starting on day 20 is absolutely acceptable and is medically effective.
You are safe.
3. Your schedule: 0, 3, 7 days
This is a valid WHO-approved intradermal or intramuscular schedule used in many countries.
A standard schedule is:
• Day 0
• Day 3
• Day 7
Sometimes a Day 14 dose may also be added depending on hospital protocol.
If the doctor gave you 3 doses, follow their plan.
Next Steps
Do you need Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG)?
RIG (antibodies) is required if:
• The wound is deep
• There is bleeding
• It is a Category III exposure
• Vaccination is delayed more than 24 hours with a deep wound
You said it was a small scratch with little blood → most likely Category II, and RIG is not mandatory.
Your doctor judged correctly.
Health Tips
Most important point — Rabies is preventable. Since you took the vaccine, you are protected.
Rabies vaccine is extremely effective.
Late vaccination does not mean failure.
You have taken all the medically required steps.
You are safe now.
Hello,
A small scratch that drew even a little blood is considered a Category II exposure, which does need vaccination. Taking the vaccine after 20 days is not ideal, but it is still far better than not taking it. Rabies vaccines work even when started late because the virus takes time to reach the nerves.
The schedule you mentioned (Day 0, 3, 7) is part of the standard protocol, but whether it’s sufficient for you depends on:
• Whether immunoglobulin (RIG) was needed
• Depth and location of the scratch
• Condition of the cat (alive, healthy, behaviour)
• Your previous vaccination history
You are not necessarily unsafe but you are also not fully assessed yet.
Rabies is one condition where guessing is not acceptable.
If you want me to check your exact risk level and confirm whether your current course is enough or needs correction, you can message me directly on whatsapp at nine three two six zero two zero five three six and I’ll guide you step-by-step based on your exposure details.
Need few more details for proper understanding of your issue.
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
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