Rabies and tetanus vaccines after an injury

The plan depends on the animal or injury, where the exposure occurred, wound features, earlier vaccine doses and immune health. Receiving one vaccine does not replace the other when both are indicated.

Rabies prevention is considered after saliva from a potentially infected mammal reaches broken skin or the eyes, mouth or nose. Management may include a vaccine course and, for some people who were not previously vaccinated, rabies immunoglobulin placed around the wound.

Tetanus prevention is based on the type of wound and the person's vaccination history. A booster may be recommended, and tetanus immunoglobulin may be needed in selected higher-risk wounds when protection is incomplete or uncertain. Antibiotics do not substitute for either vaccination decision.

Wash the area promptly and thoroughly with soap and running water, remove visible dirt if it can be done safely, apply an antiseptic if available, and cover it with a clean dressing. Do not tightly close a bite wound yourself or apply irritating household substances.

Arrange urgent medical assessment the same day for a possible rabies exposure; do not wait for symptoms. Bring vaccination records and explain the animal species, its behaviour, ownership or availability for official observation, the location of the incident, and how saliva contacted you. Follow the full schedule given by the treating service.

Call emergency services for uncontrolled bleeding, a deep injury to the face or neck, loss of movement or sensation, breathing difficulty, or signs of a severe allergic reaction after vaccination. A bite to the hand, face or near a joint also deserves prompt assessment because important structures may be involved.

Return for care if pain, redness, swelling or discharge is increasing, fever develops, red streaks spread from the wound, or scheduled injections were missed. New jaw stiffness, painful muscle spasms, swallowing difficulty, unusual agitation or weakness requires urgent medical evaluation.

Ask whether rabies vaccine, rabies immunoglobulin, a tetanus-containing vaccine or tetanus immunoglobulin is advised in your case. Write down the remaining appointment dates, wound-care instructions, expected reactions and a contact point if the animal's status changes or a dose is delayed.