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Should I Be Worried About Possible Rabies Exposure After Coming In Close Proximity With Bats?
Question: I have a question about a bat/rabies exposure. I was working in an attic 20 days ago and there was a couple bats in the attic as well. When I first entered the attic, one of the bats flew past me and was pretty close to me. I don't believe it landed on me or made contact with me. Should I be worried about possible rabies exposure?
I contacted my local health department, the first lady I talked to said to get the rabies shots but she called me back a few minutes later and said that I shouldn't need them after talking to someone else. This has me concerned since they changed their answer. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
I contacted my local health department, the first lady I talked to said to get the rabies shots but she called me back a few minutes later and said that I shouldn't need them after talking to someone else. This has me concerned since they changed their answer. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Brief Answer:
Rabies vaccine is not necessary
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
There is no risk of rabies exposure in your case. Moreover, since it was 20 days ago and you are doing fine, there is absolutely nothing to be worried about. You can relax.
Hope this answers your question. Please let me know if you need further clarification.
Regards,
Dr. Lekshmi
Rabies vaccine is not necessary
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
There is no risk of rabies exposure in your case. Moreover, since it was 20 days ago and you are doing fine, there is absolutely nothing to be worried about. You can relax.
Hope this answers your question. Please let me know if you need further clarification.
Regards,
Dr. Lekshmi
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Yogesh D
Dr.Lekshmi,
thank you for taking time out of your busy day to answer!
I do have one quick follow up question. I have read that rabies doesn't usually start showing symptoms until 3-4 weeks after exposure. Does it usually take that long or would someone normally show signs by 20 days?
Thanks!
thank you for taking time out of your busy day to answer!
I do have one quick follow up question. I have read that rabies doesn't usually start showing symptoms until 3-4 weeks after exposure. Does it usually take that long or would someone normally show signs by 20 days?
Thanks!
Brief Answer:
Rabies incubation period
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Rabies incubation period (time from exposure to symptoms) can vary greatly. It is usually said to be 2 to 3 weeks. However, it can occur as early as 10 days.
If the animal bite / scratch is closer to the brain, the symptoms will appear earlier.
Given your history, lack of scratch or bite from the animal and lack of any symptoms are very reassuring . You don't have to worry about rabies
Regards,
Dr. Lekshmi
Rabies incubation period
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Rabies incubation period (time from exposure to symptoms) can vary greatly. It is usually said to be 2 to 3 weeks. However, it can occur as early as 10 days.
If the animal bite / scratch is closer to the brain, the symptoms will appear earlier.
Given your history, lack of scratch or bite from the animal and lack of any symptoms are very reassuring . You don't have to worry about rabies
Regards,
Dr. Lekshmi
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Kampana
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