Understanding CVID and Rabies Exposure: Seeking Guidance
Greetings! I’m a 23-year-old female from Morocco, weighing 55kg and standing 165cm tall. To summarize my situation, I've been diagnosed with Common Variable Immune Deficiency (CVID) and have been receiving intravenous immunoglobulin therapy for the past three years. Recently, I encountered a concerning situation when I was bitten by a dog suspected of being rabid. I acted quickly by heading to the emergency room, where the wound was cleaned, and subsequently moved on to a health facility for vaccination. I informed the healthcare professional about my CVID, but he seemed unfamiliar with the condition, which is quite uncommon in my region. Despite my explanation, I was initially given my first rabies vaccine shot without the Rabies Immune Globulin (RIG). I insisted on receiving the RIG, as my history indicates a lack of vaccine response—evidenced by past tests showing undetectable levels of IgG, IgM, and IgA. After much discussion, they eventually agreed to provide me with the RIG, but it was administered in my arm rather than directly into the wound on my thigh. I later discovered that RIG is ideally supposed to infiltrate the wound, which leaves me feeling uneasy about the effectiveness of the treatment I received. I’m now in a state of anxiety, feeling uncertain about my next steps. I have four additional vaccine shots lined up, but given my condition and my past vaccine reactions, I’m questioning their potential effectiveness. Furthermore, since the RIG was administered systemically, I’m concerned that it may not adequately neutralize the rabies virus. I would appreciate any advice or comforting words during this challenging time. I recognize that one might suggest consulting a doctor for reassurance, but my reality is that I need to see a specialist. Unfortunately, specialists are unavailable on weekends, and the general practitioners I've encountered are not well-versed in the implications of CVID on patient care. Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I'm eager to hear your thoughts and support. 90d
Answers (1)
2/8/2026, 4:20:31 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're going through a very challenging experience with your dog bite incident, especially given your history with Common Variable Immune Deficiency (CVID). Your concerns about the rabies vaccination protocol and the response to the rabies virus are valid, especially considering the complexities of your immune condition.
Main Points:
- Vaccine and RIG Administration: Your situation with the rabies vaccine and RIG (Rabies Immune Globulin) is crucial to address.
- Understanding CVID Impact: Your CVID condition may affect how your body responds to vaccines.
- Managing Anxiety and Next Steps: It's important to focus on mental well-being alongside physical health.
Explanation:
With CVID, your immune system does not produce adequate antibodies, which can affect your response to vaccinations, including the rabies vaccine. The appropriate administration of RIG is essential because it provides immediate passive immunity by neutralizing the rabies virus that may have entered the wound. Ideally, RIG should infiltrate the wound area—though systemic administration can still offer some protection, it may not be as effective as recommended.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a close eye on the site of the bite for any signs of infection (redness, swelling, pain) and note any symptoms like fever, unusual behavior, or neurological changes.
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Continue Vaccination Schedule: Proceed with your remaining rabies vaccinations as scheduled. It's critical to complete this process to maximize your protection against rabies.
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Follow Up on RIG Administration: When you can consult a specialist, discuss the concerns about RIG administration and your vaccination history. They can provide guidance specific to individuals with CVID.
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Anxiety Management: It’s normal to feel anxious about this situation. Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or journaling can help manage this anxiety. Consider reaching out to a mental health professional for support when available, or find local support groups for individuals dealing with chronic health issues.
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Documentation: Keep a record of what happened during your visit, including the wound care process and your concerns about the RIG administration. This information will be helpful for specialists when addressing your case.
Remember, you're taking the right steps by seeking information and planning your actions. It’s understandable to feel anxious, but you are proactive in your care, which is a positive approach. If you have any more questions or need support, feel free to reach out.
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