How many rabies shots are given after a dog bite to a child? - briefly
The number of rabies shots administered to a child after a dog bite typically follows a specific schedule. This regimen usually involves four doses over a period of 14 days, with the first dose given as soon as possible after the incident and subsequent doses spaced out accordingly.
How many rabies shots are given after a dog bite to a child? - in detail
After a dog bite, the number of rabies shots required for a child depends on several factors, including the child's age and weight, the severity of the bite, and whether or not the dog is known to be vaccinated against rabies. Rabies is a serious disease that can be fatal if not treated promptly. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) protocol for rabies.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a four-dose vaccine schedule for PEP, which consists of two types of injections: human rabies immunoglobulin (HRIG) and rabies vaccine. The HRIG is given once at the time of the bite, while the rabies vaccine is administered on days 0, 3, 7, and 14.
Here's a breakdown of the PEP protocol:
-
Human Rabies Immunoglobulin (HRIG): This is an injection that provides immediate protection against rabies. It should be administered as soon as possible after exposure, ideally within 24 hours but no later than seven days. The dose of HRIG depends on the child's weight:
- Less than 10 kg: 20 IU
- 10-20 kg: 40 IU
- More than 20 kg: 60 IU
-
Rabies Vaccine: The rabies vaccine is given on four different days, along with the HRIG. The dose of the vaccine depends on the child's age and weight:
- Less than 15 kg: 0.1 mL
- 15-25 kg: 0.25 mL
- More than 25 kg: 0.5 mL
The first dose of the rabies vaccine is given on day 0, i.e., the same day as the HRIG injection. The subsequent doses are given on days 3, 7, and 14. It's essential to complete all four doses of the vaccine for maximum protection against rabies.
In some cases, a fifth dose of the rabies vaccine may be recommended, depending on the child's immune status and the severity of the bite. This is known as the "2-1-1" regimen, where the second dose is given one week after the first, followed by two more doses one and three months later, respectively.
It's crucial to seek medical attention immediately after a dog bite to assess the risk of rabies and initiate PEP if necessary. The healthcare provider will determine the appropriate number of shots based on the child's age, weight, and the circumstances of the bite.