I was bitten by a rabid dog, what should I do? - briefly
If you have been bitten by a rabid dog, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water, and promptly visit the nearest healthcare facility for post-exposure prophylaxis.
I was bitten by a rabid dog, what should I do? - in detail
If you have been bitten by a rabid dog, it is crucial to take immediate and comprehensive actions to prevent the disease from progressing. Rabies is a viral infection that affects the nervous system and is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear. Here are the steps you should follow:
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Clean the Wound Thoroughly: Immediately clean the wound with soap and water for at least 15 minutes. This helps to remove any saliva from the dog, which may contain the rabies virus. Do not use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol as they can cause tissue damage.
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Seek Medical Attention Promptly: Visit a healthcare provider immediately after cleaning the wound. Even if you do not feel any pain or see signs of infection, it is important to be evaluated by a medical professional. Inform them about the nature of the bite and the possibility of rabies exposure.
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Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): Your healthcare provider will likely recommend post-exposure prophylaxis, which consists of a series of vaccinations to prevent rabies from developing. The World Health Organization recommends a regimen of four vaccine doses over a period of 14 days. The first dose should be administered as soon as possible after the bite, ideally within 24 hours.
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Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG): In addition to the vaccines, your healthcare provider may also recommend rabies immunoglobulin (RIG), especially if you have not been previously vaccinated against rabies or if it has been a long time since your last vaccine. RIG provides immediate protection by neutralizing the virus before it can reach the nervous system. It is typically administered at the site of the bite and sometimes intramuscularly as well.
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Monitor for Symptoms: Even with prompt treatment, it is essential to monitor for any signs or symptoms of rabies. These may include fever, headache, weakness, and discomfort or tingling at the site of the bite. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
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Report the Incident: Inform local health authorities about the incident. This helps in tracking potential outbreaks and ensuring that other individuals are not at risk.
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Follow-up Care: Ensure you complete the entire course of vaccinations as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Missing any doses could compromise your protection against rabies.
By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing rabies and protect your health. Do not delay seeking medical attention, as timely treatment is critical in preventing this deadly disease.