Question 1

I'm feeling quite anxious about something that happened over three weeks ago. I got bitten on the hand by a bat, and when I saw a general physician, they suggested just a tetanus shot. They mentioned that rabies vaccines aren't necessary for bat bites here in India. But I'm getting worried now. Is that really the case? Should I be doing anything else to protect myself from rabies?

Accepted Answer

its better to take rabies vaccine as a precautionary measure

Question 2

I've had PV malaria three times this year and each time I took Lariago DS. I can't take PQ though, because my G6PD enzyme levels are on the lower side. Is there any permanent way to get rid of this? I'm really worried it might keep coming back.

Accepted Answer

Given your recurrent Plasmodium vivax (PV) malaria and G6PD deficiency, which prevents you from taking primaquine (PQ), consider consulting a specialist for alternative treatment options, such as a higher dose of chloroquine or a combination of chloroquine and other antimalarial medications, and take preventive measures, including using insecticide-treated bed nets, wearing protective clothing, and applying insect repellents to minimize the risk of future infections.

Question 3

I'm really concerned about my situation here. I was bitten by a street cat before and went through the full rabies vaccination series of 5 doses. Then, 6 months later, the same cat bit me again, and I got 3 more doses of the vaccine. Now, if this same cat bites me once more just 2 months after my last rabies shot, do I need to get vaccinated again? If so, how many doses would be necessary? Also, just to mention, the cat hasn't been vaccinated. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

After two previous bite incidents and vaccination series, if bitten again by the same unvaccinated cat, you'll likely need a booster dose. Here's a general guideline:

Consult a Doctor Immediately

1. Report the incident and previous vaccination history.
2. Discuss the need for a booster dose.

General Recommendations

1. If the previous vaccination series was completed (5 doses), a booster dose of 1-2 injections might be sufficient.
2. If the incident occurs within 2 months of the last vaccination dose, a booster dose might not be necessary.

What are the stages of infection?

The five stages of infection include the incubation, prodromal, illness, decline, and convalescence periods.

More Infectious Disease Health Queries

I've had PV malaria three times this year and each time I took Lariago DS. I can't take PQ though, because my G6PD enzyme levels are on the lower side. Is there any permanent way to get rid of this? I'm really worried it might keep coming back.

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