Prevention

See the Preventing Dog Bites page to learn how to prevent bites, and what to do in case you are bitten by a dog or cat. If you are in a higher risk group, it is important to seek medical care promptly.

If you start having symptoms within 14 days of being bitten, get medical care immediately. Tell your health care provider that you were recently bitten by an animal. About 30% of people who get infected die. Some infections can lead to death within 24 to 72 hours after symptoms start.

If you have been bitten by a dog or cat, call your doctor right away, even if you don’t feel sick.

People may be infected after close contact with a dog or cat without being bitten. If you are at higher risk of infection, speak with your doctor about how to protect yourself when you have contact with pets. Also, see the Pets page for information about safer contact with pets.