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Can Cat Scratch Fever Be Contracted By A Toddler From A Cat Scratch?

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Posted on Thu, 28 Sep 2017
Question: My 15 month old grandson was just scratched by our outdoor cat (she's had all shots except feline leukemia) and is healthy as far as we know. It's his first exposure to a cat. Should I worry about cat scratch fever? First grandson...I panic about everything. I cleaned it with soap, water, hydrogen peroxide and put Neosporin on it. Everything I read is scary, I can't figure out if cat scratch fever is rare or common???
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Answered by Dr. salah saad shoman (28 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Common in cats younger than one year

Detailed Answer:
Dear Ma'am, I have gone through your question and I understand your concerns

But unfortunately, there is no vaccination to prevent cats from getting infected and potentially transmitting cat scratch disease but mostly cats younger than one year of age are more likely to transmit the infection.

You did right by washing the scratch well and sanitizing the area with soap and water. Also, you did exactly well by applying the antibiotic ointment on the scratch and you should continue applying it three times daily for 3 days .. This will minimize the risk of getting infected ...

However, if he experiences redness, swelling and formation of blisters around the scratch then you should seek medical attention...

I hope you find this helpful...

Regards

Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee
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Answered by
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Dr. salah saad shoman

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 3150 Questions

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Can Cat Scratch Fever Be Contracted By A Toddler From A Cat Scratch?

Brief Answer: Common in cats younger than one year Detailed Answer: Dear Ma'am, I have gone through your question and I understand your concerns But unfortunately, there is no vaccination to prevent cats from getting infected and potentially transmitting cat scratch disease but mostly cats younger than one year of age are more likely to transmit the infection. You did right by washing the scratch well and sanitizing the area with soap and water. Also, you did exactly well by applying the antibiotic ointment on the scratch and you should continue applying it three times daily for 3 days .. This will minimize the risk of getting infected ... However, if he experiences redness, swelling and formation of blisters around the scratch then you should seek medical attention... I hope you find this helpful... Regards