A bite from which of the following wild mammals poses essentially zero risk of rabies transmission, obviating the need for rabies postexposure prophylaxis (PEP)?
A. Bat
B. Rat
C. Raccoon
D. Bites from any of these mammals present risk of rabies transmission
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Answer: B. Small rodents like mice, rats, squirrels, rabbits, and chipmunks have never been associated with rabies transmission to humans. Referral for PEP following a rat bite is unwarranted and brings only the risk of PEP side effects and an undue financial burden for the patient.
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Last Updated on January 26, 2023
