RABIES# STEPS TO FOLLOW WHEN BITTEN.

When bitten by an animal,that vaccination status is not reported follow these steps;As rabies is a fatal disease, it is often best to start the series of shots until further information is available. The animal should be isolated and observed for 10 days. Wild animals that can be captured can be killed and tested for the virus. If the animal can't be found, it is best to consult with the local health department. Post exposure prophylaxis (protective treatment) for rabies requires the following information: Bite: Did a bite occur, and where is the location of the bite? Non-bite incident: Did the saliva touch an open would or a mucous membrane? Bats: Any contact with a bat that leads to a potential scratch, bite, or mucous membrane exposure to saliva needs to be evaluated. If prolonged exposure to a bat is discovered (sleeping in a room where a bat is found), post exposure prophylaxis needs to be considered. When bitten, wash bite site with soap and water and visit the hospital to start post exposure treatment. The first is a rabies immune globulin that helps to prevent the virus from infecting the individual, Part of this immunization is given near the animal bite.This is followed by five injections over the next two weeks. These are rabies vaccines to help the body fight the virus given at day 0, 3 7,14 and 28.