What happens if a rabid dog bites a person? - briefly
If a rabid dog bites a person, immediate medical attention is crucial as the virus can spread rapidly through the nervous system, leading to severe neurological symptoms and even death if left untreated. Prompt administration of the rabies vaccine can prevent the onset of the disease.
What happens if a rabid dog bites a person? - in detail
When a rabid dog bites a person, several critical events unfold that require immediate attention and medical intervention. Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. The virus is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, making bites particularly dangerous.
Upon being bitten by a rabid dog, the first priority is to clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water. This step helps to remove any viral particles that may have entered the body through the bite. It is crucial not to use hydrogen peroxide or other disinfectants, as they can irritate the wound and potentially slow down healing.
Next, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. A healthcare professional will assess the severity of the injury and determine whether post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is necessary. PEP typically involves a series of vaccinations that prevent the virus from taking hold in the body. The World Health Organization recommends a four-dose vaccine regimen for individuals who have been exposed to rabies. The first dose should be administered as soon as possible after the bite, with subsequent doses given on days 3, 7, and 14.
In addition to vaccinations, medical professionals may also prescribe immunoglobulin (IG) injections for individuals who have not been previously vaccinated against rabies. IG provides immediate protection by neutralizing the virus until the body's immune system can respond effectively with antibodies. The IG is usually administered around the wound site and into a muscle, depending on the severity of the exposure.
While PEP is highly effective in preventing rabies, it is not foolproof. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor for any symptoms of the disease. Rabies symptoms typically do not appear until the virus has reached the brain, at which point the infection is almost always fatal. Early symptoms may include fever, headache, and general weakness, progressing to insomnia, anxiety, confusion, slight or partial paralysis, excitation, hallucinations, agitation, hypersalivation (increase in saliva), difficulty swallowing, and hydrophobia (fear of water).
If symptoms do appear, immediate hospitalization is necessary. Treatment at this stage focuses on supportive care, which may include sedation, hydration, and maintenance of respiratory function. Unfortunately, once clinical signs of rabies emerge, the prognosis is extremely poor, with a high mortality rate.
In summary, being bitten by a rabid dog sets off a chain of events that require swift medical intervention. Cleaning the wound, administering PEP, and monitoring for symptoms are critical steps in preventing the onset of this fatal disease. Early treatment significantly enhances the chances of survival, making prompt action essential in the event of a rabid dog bite.