What is the treatment for swallowing rabbit saliva?

Treatment for Swallowing Rabbit Saliva

Rabbit saliva ingestion does not require specific treatment as rabbits are almost never found to be infected with rabies and have not been known to transmit rabies to humans. 1

Risk Assessment

• Small rodents and lagomorphs (including rabbits and hares) are almost never found to be infected with rabies and have not been known to transmit rabies to humans 1
• From 1990 through 1996, in areas with endemic raccoon rabies, woodchucks accounted for 93% of rabies cases among rodents, while rabbits were not significant vectors 1
• In all cases involving potential exposure to rabbit saliva, the state or local health department should be consulted before initiating any antirabies postexposure prophylaxis 1

Management Algorithm

Step 1: Assess Exposure Context

• Determine if the rabbit was:
  • Wild or domestic 1
  • Showing abnormal behavior or signs of illness 1
  • From an area with known rabies outbreaks 1

Step 2: Wound Management (if applicable)

• If there was a bite or scratch along with saliva exposure:
  • Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water 1
  • Apply an antiseptic solution if available 1

Step 3: Consultation

• Contact local health department for guidance 1
• In almost all cases involving rabbit saliva exposure, post-exposure prophylaxis is not warranted 1

Special Considerations

Allergic Reactions

• Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to rabbit saliva proteins 2, 3
• Rabbit saliva contains several allergenic proteins, including lipocalins (18 kDa and 21 kDa species) 2
• If allergic symptoms develop after exposure to rabbit saliva:
  • For mild symptoms: antihistamines may be sufficient 3
  • For severe reactions: seek immediate medical attention as anaphylaxis can occur in rare cases 4

Oral Mucosa Irritation

• If oral irritation occurs after rabbit saliva exposure:
  • Rinse mouth with warm saline solution 1
  • Apply mucoprotectant mouthwash if needed 1
  • Use benzydamine hydrochloride oral rinse for pain relief 1

Important Caveats

• While post-exposure prophylaxis is generally not needed for rabbit saliva exposure, each case should be evaluated based on the specific circumstances and regional rabies prevalence 1
• The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) guidelines clearly indicate that rabbits are not considered significant rabies vectors 1
• If the rabbit showed unusual neurological symptoms or aggressive behavior, consultation with public health authorities is essential 1
• Individuals with compromised immune systems may require more cautious evaluation 1