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 (-3 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