If a dog bites your child, stay calm but act fast. Wash the wound immediately with soap and running water for 15 minutes, then go to the hospital right away for the rabies teeka (vaccine). Rabies is 100% preventable with timely vaccination, but 100% fatal if symptoms develop. Time is critical - don't wait!
Watch: First Year Vaccination Schedule for Baby | Pain VS Painless Vaccine | Babynama Vaccination Package
Do NOT:
India has the highest number of rabies deaths in the world. Key facts:
Rabies is a deadly viral infection that attacks the brain and nervous system. It's transmitted through the saliva of infected animals - usually through bites, but also through scratches or licks on broken skin.
Good news: These can be completely prevented with the right treatment after a bite!
The WHO classifies exposures into three categories:
| Category | Description | Treatment Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Category I | Touching/feeding animal, licks on intact skin | No treatment needed |
| Category II | Minor scratches without bleeding, nibbles on uncovered skin, licks on broken skin | Wound care + Vaccination |
| Category III | Single/multiple bites penetrating skin, scratches with bleeding, licks on mucous membranes | Wound care + Vaccination + Immunoglobulin |
Doctor will examine:
Modern vaccines are:
Vaccination Schedule:
| Day | Action |
|---|---|
| Day 0 | First dose (immediately) |
| Day 3 | Second dose |
| Day 7 | Third dose |
| Day 14 | Fourth dose |
| Day 28 | Fifth dose (may be skipped if Category II) |
For Category III exposures:
Expert Insight: As our pediatricians remind parents: 'Milestones have wide ranges. Focus on progress, not comparison.'
A: Yes! Even scratches or nibbles that don't bleed can transmit rabies if they break the skin. Always get medical evaluation.
A: If your pet is properly vaccinated against rabies, the risk is lower. However, consult a doctor immediately. They may still recommend starting vaccination while observing the dog for 10 days.
A: This is very risky. By the time the dog shows symptoms, precious time is lost. Start vaccination immediately. You can discontinue if the dog is proven healthy after 10 days.
A: Modern vaccines are given in the arm like any other vaccine. They're much less painful than the old stomach injections. Some children may have mild arm soreness.
A: Ideally within hours, but definitely within 24 hours. Earlier is always better. However, even if delayed, get the vaccine - it can still be effective.
A: Yes, face/head bites are Category III because the virus reaches the brain faster. These always require immunoglobulin plus vaccine. Seek emergency care immediately.
A: Don't waste time trying to catch or identify the dog. Get immediate treatment. If you can observe the dog from a distance and it survives 10 days healthily, that's helpful but not essential for treatment decisions.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025
Child bitten by a dog? Call Babynama immediately for urgent guidance while you head to the hospital.
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