POSSIBLE RABIES EXPOSURE!! DID I MESS UP MY VACCINATION?
Hi everyone,
I need some clarity from doctors or anyone familiar with rabies protocols in India because I’m getting conflicting advice and honestly panicking.
Here’s what happened:
I accidentally stepped on a stray dog. It barked at me immediately but I am almost completely sure there was no actual bite, scratch, or saliva contact. Right after, I felt itchy in that area and when I scratched it, the skin turned red and bumpy which made me panic even more.
Even though I am 99.999% sure there was no physical contact, my mind just went into worst-case mode. It was a Sunday and most hospitals were closed, so I rushed to a nearby pharmacy. I was extremely anxious and just thinking: if I don’t get vaccinated right now, I’m going to die
The pharmacist gave me:
- 1 rabies vaccine shot
- 1 tetanus shot
He told me this is enough and no further doses are needed.
Later, I went to a clinic to confirm, and they told me this is not sufficient and that I should GET the 0-3-7 Shots. I was overwhelmed and alone in the city and when they said “laga dete hai, kuch nahi hoga”, I just agreed and left it at that.
Then I spoke to someone pursuing MBBS at AIIMS and he told me:
- What I got is just the first dose
- I will need to take the remaining doses as per schedule
Now I’m confused.
I’m attaching the exact vaccine I received last night for reference and the photo of the wound.
My questions:
- Have I received the correct dose so far?
- Is one shot enough in my case, or do I need to complete the full course?