All cases of suspected rabies exposure should be treated
immediately to prevent the onset of clinical symptoms and death. Post-exposure
prophylaxis (PEP) consists of wound treatment, the administration of rabies
vaccines based on WHO recommendations, and if indicated, the administration of
rabies immunoglobulin.
Local treatment of wounds
Elimination of rabies virus at the site of the infection by
chemical or physical means is an effective mechanism of protection. Local
treatment of wounds involving possible exposure to rabies is recommended in all
exposures.
Recommended first-aid procedures include immediate and thorough
flushing and washing of the wound for a minimum of 15 minutes with soap and
water, detergent, povidone iodine or other substances of proven lethal effect
on rabies virus.
There are no contraindications to PEP; it can be safely given to
infants, pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. Life-saving PEP
sho…