If a dog bites and I don't get injections, what will happen? - briefly
If a dog bites and you do not receive immediate medical attention, including rabies vaccinations, you risk developing rabies, a fatal viral disease that affects the nervous system. Without prompt treatment, the chances of survival are extremely low once symptoms appear.
If a dog bites and I don't get injections, what will happen? - in detail
If a dog bites and you do not receive immediate medical attention, including necessary injections, several consequences may unfold.
Firstly, there is a significant risk of infection from bacteria present in the dog's mouth. Common bacterial infections include Pasteurella, which can cause redness, pain, and swelling around the bite area within hours. If left untreated, this infection can spread to other parts of the body, leading to more severe conditions such as sepsis or septic arthritis.
Secondly, rabies is a serious concern. Although rare in some regions due to vaccination programs, it remains prevalent in others. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, making prompt treatment crucial. If you are bitten by an animal suspected of having rabies and do not receive post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which includes a series of injections, the virus can incubate for weeks or even months before manifesting neurological symptoms.
Thirdly, there is a risk of tetanus infection. Tetanus spores are often found in soil and can enter the body through a wound. Without proper vaccination or treatment, tetanus can cause muscle stiffness, difficulty swallowing, and even death due to respiratory failure.
Moreover, delayed medical intervention may increase the likelihood of scarring and other long-term effects from the bite itself. This can include nerve damage, which might result in numbness or weakness in the affected area.
In summary, failing to seek immediate medical attention and receive necessary injections after a dog bite can lead to serious infections, potentially fatal diseases like rabies, and other long-term health issues. Therefore, it is essential to clean the wound thoroughly, apply pressure if bleeding, and seek professional medical help as soon as possible.