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