In all cases of severe exposure, the wound caused by the bite of the rabid animal should be thoroughly washed with soap and water and antirabies serum should be applied locally. Combined vaccine and serum treatment is also recommended. Experience has shown that in case of mild exposure, the administration of a potent vaccine alone may be quite effective. Harmful reactions are possible following the use of either heterologous antirabies serum or antirabies vaccine; the danger of serum reactions will be considerably reduced if serum of human origin is used.