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RABIES — Everything You Need to Know - Printable Version

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RABIES — Everything You Need to Know - drsmart - 06-07-2026

Hello everyone,
Most of us have heard the word "rabies", but many don’t know what to actually do if a dog bites, scratches, or licks us.
This post explains everything in simple language — what rabies is, what to do after a bite, the vaccine schedule, costs, and your rights if it happens at your workplace.
Please read and share with your family and friends. This information can save a life.

What is Rabies?
Rabies is a deadly viral infection that affects the brain and nervous system. Once a person develops symptoms, it is almost always fatal. There is no treatment once the disease sets in.
The good news — it is 100% preventable if the right steps are taken immediately after an animal bite or scratch.
In India, dogs are responsible for more than 96% of rabies cases in humans. Cats, monkeys, bats, and foxes can also spread rabies.
How Does Rabies Spread?
Rabies spreads through the saliva of an infected animal — most commonly through:
  • A bite that breaks the skin
  • A scratch from an infected animal
  • Saliva of an infected animal coming into contact with your eyes, mouth, or an open wound
It does not spread through:
  • Touching or petting an animal
  • An animal licking your unbroken, healthy skin
  • Blood, urine, or faeces of an infected animal
India and Rabies — The Numbers Are Alarming
  • India accounts for approximately 36% of all rabies deaths in the world
  • Around 18,000 to 20,000 people die from rabies in India every year
  • Most deaths happen in rural areas
  • Children under 15 are the most affected group
  • Many deaths occur because people delay treatment or do not complete the vaccine course
Gujarat reports regular dog bite cases in both urban and rural areas. Awareness and quick action are critical.
What to Do Immediately After a Dog Bite or Animal Scratch
Step 1 — Wash the wound immediately
Wash the bite or scratch thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes. This can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

Step 2 — Go to a doctor or hospital the same day
Do not wait. Do not apply chilli powder, turmeric, or any home remedy. Go to a government hospital, PHC, or private clinic immediately.

Step 3 — Get vaccinated
The doctor will assess the wound and start the anti-rabies vaccine if needed. Do not skip doses — an incomplete course will not fully protect you.
Anti-Rabies Vaccine — Dose and Schedule
There are two methods, both effective:
Option 1 — Intramuscular (IM)
  • Injection in upper arm
  • One full dose per visit
  • Days: 0, 3, 7, 14, 28
  • Total: 5 doses
Option 2 — Intradermal (ID)
  • Small injection under the skin
  • Two injections per visit (both arms)
  • Days: 0, 3, 7, 28
  • Total: 4 visits
Both schedules are WHO approved. The most important thing is to start immediately and complete the full course.

Availability:
  • Government hospitals and PHCs — Free
  • Private hospitals and clinics
  • Urban health centres
Rabies Vaccine Cost (Private)
Requirement
Approx Cost (INR)
Single IM dose
₹350 – ₹600

Full IM course (5 doses)
₹1,750 – ₹3,000+

Intradermal course
₹800 – ₹1,500

RIG (if required)
₹1,500 – ₹4,000+

If cost is a concern, go to a government hospital — vaccines are free.
Common brands in India: Rabipur, Verorab, Abhayrab, Indirab.
Who Is at Higher Risk (Workplace)
High-risk occupations include:
  • Veterinarians and staff
  • Farmers and livestock workers
  • Slaughterhouse workers
  • Forest and wildlife staff
  • Stray animal feeders
  • Lab workers handling animal samples
These individuals should take pre-exposure vaccination (3 doses).
If an animal bite occurs at the workplace, it is a workplace injury. The employer is legally responsible for treatment and compensation.
Signs and Symptoms of Rabies
The incubation period can range from weeks to months.
Early symptoms:
  • Fever, headache, weakness
  • Burning/tingling at bite site
  • Anxiety or confusion
Later symptoms:
  • Difficulty swallowing (fear of water)
  • Excess saliva
  • Paralysis
Once symptoms start, rabies is almost always fatal. This is why immediate vaccination is critical.
Your Rights as a Patient
  • Free anti-rabies vaccine at government hospitals
  • If RIG is needed, the facility must arrange or refer
  • Workplace bites are covered under the Employees’ Compensation Act, 1923
  • You can ask for a documented medical record
How to Prevent Rabies
  • Vaccinate pets every year
  • Avoid stray or wild animals
  • Teach children not to approach unknown animals
  • Report stray dog issues to authorities
  • Take pre-exposure vaccines if working with animals
References & Useful Links
Final Word
Rabies kills thousands of people in India every year — and almost every death is preventable.
The vaccine works. The treatment is available. The only gap is awareness and timely action.
If this post helped you, please share it with your family, neighbours, and colleagues — especially those in villages or working with animals.
Stay safe. Act fast. Complete the course.