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e-TABLE 94.21
INDICATIONS FOR POSTEXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS FOR RABIES
Scenario a

Recommendation

Livestock, rodents, rabbits, hares

Rarely require prophylaxis; verify
with local health authorities to see if
cases have been reported in these
animals in your region
Prophylaxis is only needed if animal
displays signs of rabies

Dogs, cats, ferrets known to be
vaccinated or available for 10-day
observation period
Dogs, cats, ferrets who are unavailable Consult with local health authorities to
for observation
see if cases have been reported in
these animals in your region
Any mammal available for
Immediate immunization and RIG
observation who develops signs of
rabies
Contact with bats, woodchucks, or
Immediate immunization and RIG
wild carnivores (coyotes, foxes,
unless animal available for
skunks)

observation
Bat found in room with a sleeping or Immediate immunization and RIG
nonverbal child
unless animal available for
observation
Contact with rabies patient
Touching an infected patient or contact
with noninfected body fluids does
not require prophylaxis
a Exposure

is defined as a bite, scratch, open wound or contact with saliva, cerebrospinal fluid, or brain
tissue.
RIG, rabies immune globulin.