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Rabies vaccine
I had 4 vaccine but one was given in lower back the 1st dose wa sin lower back and 3 were in arms but the 1st dose would be ineffective or effective and this was prep after 23 days I got bitten now idk if I have to take boosters I am already safe enough cause I heard antibody level peak in 3 months
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Dr. Harichandana,
MBBS, MD (General medicine)
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You need to take booster doses .
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You received 4 doses of rabies vaccine (likely pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP), with the first dose given in the lower back (possibly gluteal or lumbar area) and the other 3 in the arms. Standard guidelines (WHO, CDC) recommend intradermal or intramuscular injections in the deltoid (arm) or other approved sites — the gluteal/lower back area is not recommended because it can lead to lower immune response (reduced antibody production) due to poorer absorption or other factors.
However, since you completed 3 doses in the arms (the usual sites) and only the first was in the lower back, your overall protection is likely still effective. The immune system responds to the full course, and studies show good immunogenicity even with variations in schedules/routes as long as most doses are properly given. Antibody levels typically peak around 2-4 weeks after completing the series (not necessarily 3 months — peak is earlier, then levels stabilize or slowly decline over time). After 23 days post-completion, your immunity should already be strong, and you are considered protected for a bite exposure.
Next Steps
• For a bite (Category II or III exposure) after recent full PrEP, you do NOT need the full post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) course. Instead, you need only 2 booster doses of rabies vaccine (on days 0 and 3 after the bite) — no rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) is required.
• This applies even if the first dose site was suboptimal — the overall series is accepted as prior vaccination.
• Go to a doctor/clinic immediately after any bite for wound cleaning, assessment, and to start the 2 boosters right away (don’t delay).
• If you’re still worried about the effectiveness of your PrEP (due to the site), ask your doctor for a rabies antibody titer test (blood test for RVNA levels) — if ≥0.5 IU/mL, you’re well protected.
• No need for extra boosters now unless a new exposure occurs.
Health Tips
• Always clean any animal bite/scratch immediately with soap and water for 15 minutes, then seek medical care quickly.
• Keep a record of your vaccination dates and sites — show it to the doctor if bitten.
• Avoid self-googling too much — it increases anxiety; focus on prompt care if exposed.
• If no bite has happened yet and this is just worry, you’re already safe enough from your recent full course — no action needed until an exposure.
For personalized reassurance (based on exact vaccine type, your age, and exposure details), please consult with me online — I can guide you on what to tell the doctor or explain further. Stay calm and safe!
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Dr. Ashita Kuruvilla
General Practitioner
8 yrs exp
Kolkata
Need few more details for further evaluation. Kindly consult
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Dr. Vetsa Sri Krishna Chaitanya
General Physician
7 yrs exp
Rajahmundry
Need a few more details please consult for further evaluation and treatment
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Dr. Anuj Mothsra
General Physician
6 yrs exp
Jhunjhunu
Can help you, kindly consult and provide detailed history for proper diagnosis and further management
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Dr. Chaithra H
General Physician
5 yrs exp
Bangalore
Yes
Take booster as recquired
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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.