possible contact with rat saliva to the eye?

A rat bit into my bread package the night before. I touched the bite site and then touched my eye with the same finger. My eye was sore at that time since I usually bruise it(bad habit). Is it possible to contact rabies or tetanus that way. Do I need vaccination?

Thank you very much.

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi!
Yes, it is possible to catch rabies if the saliva of a rabid animal like rat comes in touch with a cut on your body or your eyes and nose. So if your eyes were bruised, yes, chances are very high. However, the chances are high only if an animal bites you. It is less likely to be transferred through saliva left on bread or food that accidently touches your eyes thorough hand that touched the bread.
You should wash eyes immediately by splashing clean water. Consult a doctor and use eye cleansers which are like tears. You may not need vaccination shots but consult a doctor to decide that. It all depends on the incidence of rabies in your area and chances of finding a rabid animal in your area. Take care!