Rabies vaccine in pregnancy is safe and not contraindicated, it is also safe for breastfeeding women.
Rabies is an acute and fatal infectious disease that can spread to the brain and central nervous system. Animals that have the possibility to cause rabies are dogs, cats, bats, foxes, skunks, monkeys, and raccoons. This disease is mostly caused by animal bites. Rabies transmission can also occur through scratches and licking/saliva contact of an infected animal on injured human skin. If the virus has spread to the brain and nervous system, it will always cause death. Therefore, this condition can not be underestimated and getting a rabies vaccine is vital. In addition, giving rabies vaccine in pregnancy and breastfeeding mothers is considered harmless and not something to worry about.
Rabies Disease
Rabies is a disease caused by a deadly virus, this virus can be transmitted through bites, scratches or saliva contact of an infected animal. In many cases, this disease is mostly caused by dog bites. At first, rabies shows no severe symptoms and early symptoms may seem similar to flu, therefore it may be hard to notice. However, it could lead to worse conditions and even death if left unchecked. Therefore, rabies can not be ignored, it is important to find medical attention after being bitten by an infected animal. Moreover, people with a high risk of rabies are advised to be vaccinated as a prevention against the virus. These people include animal farmers, veterinarians, and tourists coming to high-risk areas, for example, Bali.
Rabies Vaccine
Rabies vaccine has a function as a deterrent against the rabies virus. Before getting vaccinated, make sure to wash the wound site right after exposure, wash it with soap under running water for 10-15 minutes and apply an antiseptic such as povidone-iodine. Then, seek immediate medical help to have further treatment. The doctor will either give the patient Anti-Rabies Vaccine or Anti-Rabies Serum depending on the condition. During the consultation, the patient will also be informed about the vaccination schedule. Anti-Rabies Vaccine has a function to stimulate the antibodies to form in the body and neutralize the rabies virus. Meanwhile, Anti-Rabies Serum consists of Rabies Immunoglobulin. Rabies Immunoglobulin also has a function to activate the antibodies and neutralize the rabies virus. Anti-Rabies Serum is given to patients with multiple wounds and wounds on the facial area because the virus will reach the brain faster. Furthermore, Anti-Rabies Virus can give protection for 7-10 days before the antibodies appear. In addition, rabies vaccine in pregnancy is not contraindicated and safe for pregnant women.
Rabies Vaccine in Pregnancy
The rabies vaccine is meant to be given to avoid the rabies virus from spreading in the body and as a prevention against it. Rabies can affect anyone, people who work closely with animals and tourists traveling in high-risk areas are especially at risk of getting infected. It also doesn’t rule out the possibility for pregnant women to get infected with this disease. Rabies vaccine in pregnancy may sound dangerous for the mother and fetus. That is why people sometimes wonder if giving rabies vaccine for pregnant women is safe. Fortunately, according to World Health Organization (WHO), giving vaccines after exposure or post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is not contraindicated in pregnancy, infancy, and breastfeeding. Therefore, rabies vaccine in pregnancy is safe and will not cause any damage or side effects to the mother or the fetus. Pregnant women who are exposed to rabies shouldn’t delay seeking treatment, the condition will be fatal and will lead to death if the virus has entered the brain. It is best to consult with a doctor to determine the right treatment.
Rabies vaccine in pregnancy is harmless, therefore if a pregnant woman got bitten by a rabid animal, do not withhold the treatment and get vaccination quickly. You can get Rabies Vaccination Service through Medi-Call Application or simply contact Medi-Call Hotline at +62 81210783387.