Rabies in Ukraine - people were explained what to do after an animal bite or scratch

In Ukraine, with the onset of spring, the risk of human contact with wild and stray animals increases, and with it, the threat of rabies infection. This was reported by UNN with reference to the Public Health Center.

Details

The PHC explained that after winter, animals actively search for food and more often approach populated areas. Additionally, the situation is complicated by the consequences of the full-scale war, in particular, the decrease in animal vaccination coverage and the increase in the number of abandoned animals.

The Public Health Center emphasized that all this increases the risk of rabies infection, which is a fatal viral disease, but which can be prevented if medical help is sought in time.

Ukraine records more and more rabies infections

In recent years, the number of appeals in Ukraine due to bites or contacts with animals that may be infected with rabies has been increasing. Thus, in 2023, 1845 such appeals were recorded, in 2024 - 2507, and in 2025 - 2531.

Cases of rabies among people are also registered. In 2023, one case was recorded, in 2024 and 2025 - two cases each, and in 2026, as of March 1 - another one. All these cases resulted in the death of the patients.

What is rabies and how is it transmitted?

The PHC reminded that rabies is an acute viral disease that affects the central nervous system of humans and animals. After the onset of symptoms, the disease always leads to death.

The virus is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal during a bite, through scratches, and also if saliva gets on mucous membranes or damaged skin.

What to do if a person is bitten by a sick animal

The Public Health Center urged not to delay after contact with a potentially infected animal. They explained that even if the bite seems insignificant, only a doctor should assess the risk.

If a person has been bitten or scratched by an animal, the PHC advises to thoroughly wash the wound with running water and soap for at least 15 minutes, treat the edges of the wound with an antiseptic, and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

If anti-rabies vaccination is prescribed, a full course of five doses must be completed within 28 days.

You can find out where to get rabies vaccination in your region by following a special link. If the doctor refuses to administer the anti-rabies vaccine, patients are advised to contact another medical institution or the Ministry of Health hotline at 0 800 505 201.

To reduce the risk of rabies infection, the Public Health Center recommends not contacting wild and stray animals, not feeding them, and not trying to tame them, avoiding contact of pets with wild animals, and regularly vaccinating pets against rabies.

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