What does rabies post-exposure prophylaxis treat?

Rabies post-exposure prophylaxis is considered after an exposure such as a bite, scratch, or saliva contacting broken skin or a mucous membrane from an animal that could carry rabies. It may include wound care, rabies vaccine, and, for some exposures, rabies immunoglobulin placed around the wound. The exact plan depends on the animal, the contact, the wound, and previous vaccination. The aim is to stop the virus before it reaches the nervous system.

Wash the wound immediately with soap and running water for a prolonged rinse, then seek urgent medical assessment. Do not wait for symptoms or rely on observing the wound. Tell the clinician what animal was involved, where the contact happened, when it occurred, whether the animal can be safely assessed, and whether you have received rabies vaccine before. Follow the recommended schedule and return promptly if an appointment is missed.

Seek urgent care after any possible rabies exposure, including a minor scratch or contact that may have broken the skin. Once symptoms of rabies begin, the illness is a medical emergency, so do not wait for fever, tingling near a wound, difficulty swallowing, confusion, or unusual sensitivity to air or water. Emergency help is needed for breathing or swallowing difficulty, confusion, or rapidly worsening illness.

Does this contact count as a rabies exposure? Do I need vaccine, immunoglobulin, or both? What dates should I return, and what should I do if the animal is found?