I got scratched by a monkey at Sigiriya today. Do I need a rabies shot?

Please do not listen to the "it's fine" advice.

The Rule: In Sri Lanka, ANY scratch or bite from a mammal (monkey, dog, cat) that breaks the skin is treated as a potential Rabies exposure. Rabies is 100% fatal once symptoms start.

Action Plan: Go to the nearest government hospital (Sigiriya/Dambulla Base Hospital) or a private clinic immediately.

The Treatment: You need the Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) vaccine series. In government hospitals, it is often free or very cheap. In private hospitals, it’s expensive but faster.

Don't Panic: Thousands of tourists get treated for this every year. The shots are effective. Just go get them now.

Hey! First, don't panic, but do act. You are within the 'golden window' for treatment.

Wash the wound with soap and running water for at least 10–15 minutes (if you haven't already).

Go to the nearest hospital immediately. Sri Lanka has a very good rabies control program, but we are not rabies-free.

Toque Macaques (the monkey you likely met) can carry it. Doctors here are very experienced with this. They will assess if you need just the vaccine or the serum as well. It’s a quick visit and will save you weeks of anxiety.