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Is Rabies Vaccination Required After Being Bitten By An Emu Bird?

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Posted on Thu, 24 Aug 2017
Question: Hi Doctor, I have been bitten by an Emu bird when I was feeding it. Should it be any concern or should I take any vaccine? Please check the injured site

I have washed my hands with soap immediately after the bite.
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Answered by Dr. Geeta Sundar (4 hours later)
Brief Answer:
There are no known cases of Rabies caused by Emus

Detailed Answer:
Hi welcome to health care magic,

There are no known cases of Rabies caused by Emus.Among birds--bats are more common.
But if the Emu attacked you unprovoked, then the bird needs to be kept under watch for 10 days. If there are any symptoms of Rabies in the bird, then you need Rabies immunoglobin immediately.
I do not see any wound in the picture.
If the Emu was friendly and just licked your hand, it does not normally lead to infection. Wash wound thoroughly with Betadine lotion, and to be on safe side take three doses of rabies vaccination--one on day one.
Then day 3 and then day 7. Fourth dose can be avoided on day 14 if the bird is under observation and fine. Otherwise take 4th also.
This is just to play safe.
Regards
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng
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Answered by
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Dr. Geeta Sundar

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :1975

Answered : 1329 Questions

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Is Rabies Vaccination Required After Being Bitten By An Emu Bird?

Brief Answer: There are no known cases of Rabies caused by Emus Detailed Answer: Hi welcome to health care magic, There are no known cases of Rabies caused by Emus.Among birds--bats are more common. But if the Emu attacked you unprovoked, then the bird needs to be kept under watch for 10 days. If there are any symptoms of Rabies in the bird, then you need Rabies immunoglobin immediately. I do not see any wound in the picture. If the Emu was friendly and just licked your hand, it does not normally lead to infection. Wash wound thoroughly with Betadine lotion, and to be on safe side take three doses of rabies vaccination--one on day one. Then day 3 and then day 7. Fourth dose can be avoided on day 14 if the bird is under observation and fine. Otherwise take 4th also. This is just to play safe. Regards