I'm really anxious about something and need some advice. I know that rabies has a long incubation period, and if you get the vaccine before symptoms show up, you're usually okay. But, if the virus reaches the brain, symptoms start, right? So here's my situation: a dog bit me back in 2001 or 2002, just a little bit, and I didn't get the rabies vaccine at that time. Then years later, in 2008, I freaked out and got three vaccines, and in total, I've had 17 vaccines from 2008 to 2012. But I still can't shake off the anxiety about that old dog bite and the fear of potentially getting rabies someday is really messing with my life. Can I still get rabies in the future? If there's a risk, what can I do to protect myself? And if there's no risk, I really need some reassurance because this worry is making me super stressed.

Dr Dhankecha Dineshbhai

General Practitioner

• MBBS
• 6+ Yrs

Consult Now

It is unlikely for you to develop rabies after receiving the rabies vaccine series, especially since you completed the vaccination course. The rabies vaccine is highly effective in preventing the disease if administered correctly and on time. Since you have taken the vaccine before the virus could enter the brain, you are well-protected against rabies. To alleviate your fears and anxiety, you can consider speaking with a mental health professional or counselor to address your concerns and help you manage your anxiety related to the past dog bite incident. Additionally, practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness, may also help reduce your stress levels. Remember that you have taken the necessary steps to protect yourself from rabies, and the likelihood of developing the disease is extremely low.

Answered 04/07/2025