What if rabid dog saliva gets on my hand and then I touch my face?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
If a rabid dog's saliva touches my hand and then with the same hand if I touch my mouth and eyes can I get rabies?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on July 10th, 2017
Hi, this is Dr. Johnson. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I see you are from France, I am in the US. I urge you to contact your Public health department, Doctor or a hospital ASAP if this isn't a hypothetical question. Rabies is life threatening if you contract it. Rabies is a virus that is transmitted from the saliva of an infected dog. In order for the dog to transmit the virus it needs to be in the salivary glands. Once in the salivary glands the animal will usually show signs of rabies with in 10 days. The dog should be quarantined as outlined by your country's laws. But yes, if saliva from a dog with the transmissible stage of rabies, is immediately placed in your mouth or eye you could get rabies. It is transmitted through breaks in the skin and muco-cutaneous surfaces. I urge you to seek medical attention.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on June 5th, 2018
Unless you had some reason to suspect that your dog had rabies, I would not be concerned in this situation. If you do suspect your dog has rabies then I would recommend contacting your vet as soon as possible. Most transmission occurs via a bite wound. You can read more about this disease at https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951479
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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