Where are rabies shots given to humans after a dog bite? - briefly
Rabies shots for humans following a dog bite are typically administered in the shoulder muscle or arm. This is done to ensure the vaccine reaches the bloodstream effectively and provides prompt protection against the rabies virus.
Where are rabies shots given to humans after a dog bite? - in detail
Rabies is a severe viral infection that can be transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, most commonly through a dog bite. If a person has been bitten by a dog and there is a suspicion or confirmation of rabies, immediate medical attention is crucial. The administration of rabies shots, also known as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), involves a series of injections to prevent the onset of rabies symptoms. Here is a detailed explanation of where these rabies shots are given:
Immediate Care and Cleaning
The first step after a dog bite is to clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water. This helps remove any saliva that may contain the virus. However, cleaning should not delay seeking medical help.
Wound Injection Site (WIS)
The initial rabies shot is typically administered directly into the wound (known as the Wound Injection Site or WIS). This involves injecting a small amount of rabies immune globulin (RIG) around the area where the bite occurred. RIG provides immediate, temporary protection against the virus while the body develops its own immune response.
Deltoid Muscle
After the initial wound injection, subsequent shots are given in the deltoid muscle of the arm. This is usually done using a vaccine such as Rabies Human Diploid Cell Vaccine (RHDCV) or Purified Chick Embryo Cell Culture Vaccine (PCEC). The deltoid muscle is chosen because it has a rich blood supply, which helps distribute the vaccine throughout the body quickly and effectively.
Vaccination Schedule
The complete rabies vaccination schedule typically includes:
- An initial dose of RIG at the wound site.
- A series of rabies vaccine injections on days 0, 3, 7, and 14.
Follow-up Care
After the initial course of shots, follow-up care is essential to monitor for any adverse reactions or signs of illness. Medical professionals will advise on the necessary precautions and provide guidance throughout the vaccination period.
Conclusion
In summary, rabies shots are administered in two primary locations after a dog bite: directly into the wound site for immediate protection and into the deltoid muscle for subsequent doses to build long-term immunity. Prompt medical attention and adherence to the vaccination schedule are critical to prevent the onset of rabies symptoms.