I was scratched by a cat, and I was afraid that it was rabies
Rabies virus infection after a scratch depends on the condition of the wound, the animal's health, and vaccination history. If the patient has not been treated promptly or has been vaccinated against rabies, there is a risk of infection.
1. Wound condition: if the skin is not obviously damaged and there is no bleeding, rabies will generally not be transmitted; However, if there is a significant wound accompanied by bleeding, there is a greater possibility of rabies transmission through the bloodstream;
2. Animal health status: If the pet itself suffers from other diseases such as parasites, contact with people during the illness may lead to an increased risk of rabies.
If a pet has recently been treated with immunosuppressants or has been vaccinated within two weeks before the onset of the disease, it is also possible to reduce the immunity of the pet and cause rabies;
3. Vaccination history: If the full course of vaccination is not completed on time, the antibody level in the body is low, and the chance of exposure to the external environment is increased. Therefore, it is advisable to follow the doctor's guidance for vaccination.
If you suspect that you have been bitten or scratched by a cat or dog, you should take immediate steps to clean and disinfect the wound area, and go to the hospital as soon as possible and inform the doctor of the specific symptoms and the process of injury. Doctors will make a thorough assessment of the patient's condition, including factors such as the condition of the wound, the health of the animal, and the vaccination history to determine whether there is a possibility of infection. Formulate corresponding diagnosis and treatment plans according to the specific situation.
Whether you will get rabies if you are scratched by a cat needs to consider many influencing factors comprehensively, and cannot be generalized. However, any symptoms of suspected rabies infection should be prompted by medical attention and consultation with a medical professional for correct diagnosis and treatment.