In case of dog bite – By Dr Prakriti Samadhiya

Dogs are human’s best friends, still canine bites could happen for a lot of reasons. Be it the teething phase of a domestic or an attack from the stray- all of them need to be give medical attention. Hence, it is important to remember that rabies is the only communicable disease that is always fatal.

With WTN check out the dos and don’ts in case of a dog bite.

First medical take

Immediately put the wound under running water and thoroughly wash the wound with soap at least for 15 minutes and rush to the closest clinic that provides anti-rabies vaccination.

When to see a medical expert

· If the puncture is big

· In case the bite (even if very minor) is from a stray dog

· If the owner of dog does not have vaccination proof or isn’t sure about it

What to expect

· A tetanus shot

· Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG)

· Probably a course of antibiotics

· Vaccination on 0, 3rd, 7th, 14th and 28th days

It is advisable to complete the course even if the wound heals apparently. However, it may be discontinued if the ‘culprit dog’ is labeled ‘rabies-free’ after laboratory examination or if the bite is from a domestic dog, the animal remains healthy throughout 10 days. The observation period starts from the date of bite.

Warning

· Do not miss out anti-rabies doses

· Do not discontinue the vaccination

· Do not neglect the bite. It could be fatal

· Do not apply mud or cow dung to the wound

· Do not tie a piece of cloth/bandage/string above the bite

· Do not assume the dog is healthy or not infected by rabies

Remember

The bite or the wound must not be stitched up immediately. Doing so will lead to additional trauma and the virus may spread deeper into the tissue.

(The writer is an expert with People’s Hospital, Bhopal)