Can Rabies Be Contracted Through Accidental Skin Contact With A Dead Animal's Brain Matter?

Posted on Fri, 8 Dec 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 8 Dec 2017 Answered on

Thu, 10 May 2018 Last reviewed on

Question : Last dumb rabies question- if any brain or nervous material got on my shoe would it be Viable or infectous after 4 days? Just a little worried that i tracked something in my hotel room @ 68 degrees
- now i am heading home i wanted to make sure if some little bit of brain got in the floor or my bags the virus would be dead.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
No, it is not infectious.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you writing in healthcare magic.

Based on your data , I think that this brain material it is not infectious after 4 days outside the body.
You should know that according the recommandations rabies virus becomes noninfectious when it dries out and when it is exposed to sunlight.

I hope my answer helps you.
Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (1 hour later)

So no worries- kids and family will be safe

Answered by Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (54 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
No worries.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you writing back.

Based on your history, I think you shouldn't worry.

I hope my answer helps you.
Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T