Patient's question:
Doctor, I went to the countryside today and a big dog ran past the child, very close. The dog had its tongue hanging out and its mouth open while running. The child has a small cut on their finger with blood seeping through, and they also have allergic conjunctivitis in their eyes. The corner of their eye is not only rubbed and inflamed but also has not yet healed. I am very worried that the dog's saliva might have gotten on the wound while it passed by, potentially transmitting rabies?Doctor's answer:
I'm glad to clarify this for you. Based on your description and the situation, the child's wound has already healed. Since the dog did not directly lick the wound, there is absolutely no risk of rabies transmission in this case. I suggest you don't worry too much. Rabies is usually transmitted through wounds caused by bites from cats or dogs. In your situation, rabies transmission is highly unlikely. You can use soap to repeatedly wash the child's hands and use iodine to sterilize the wound. For conjunctivitis, it's best to seek medical treatment from a hospital.