What should I do after being bitten by a rabid dog? - briefly
If you are bitten by a rabid dog, immediately clean the wound with soap and water, then seek medical attention promptly for post-exposure prophylaxis.
What should I do after being bitten by a rabid dog? - in detail
If you have been bitten by a rabid dog, it is crucial to take immediate and thorough action to prevent the development of rabies. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but it is also highly preventable if promptly treated. Follow these steps:
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Cleanse the Wound: Immediately after the bite, clean the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 15 minutes. This will help remove any virus particles present in the saliva of the dog. Do not use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol as they can damage tissue and slow healing.
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Seek Medical Attention: Visit a healthcare provider immediately, ideally within 24 hours of the bite. Inform them about the incident and provide details about the dog, if possible. The doctor will assess the wound and determine the need for further treatment.
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Rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): Your healthcare provider may recommend a series of rabies vaccinations known as PEP. This is typically administered in a regimen that includes both passive antibodies (human rabies immunoglobulin, HRIG) and active vaccination (rabies vaccine). The number of doses will depend on your immune status and previous vaccinations.
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HRIG: This is given as a single dose at the time of the initial wound cleaning. It provides immediate protection against rabies by neutralizing the virus before it can enter cells.
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Rabies Vaccine: The vaccine is usually administered on days 0, 3, 7, and 14. For those with a compromised immune system or who have never been vaccinated against rabies, an additional dose may be given on day 28.
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Monitor Symptoms: Even if you receive PEP, it is essential to monitor for any signs of rabies. Symptoms can take some time to appear but usually develop within a few weeks after exposure. Common symptoms include fever, headache, weakness, and discomfort or tingling at the site of the bite. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
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Report the Incident: Inform local health authorities about the incident. This helps in tracking rabies cases and ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to prevent further spread.
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Observe the Dog: If possible, observe the dog for any signs of rabies over a 10-day period. If the dog shows symptoms or dies during this time, it is crucial to inform your healthcare provider as they may recommend additional treatment.
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Follow Up: Complete all recommended doses of the vaccine and attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. This ensures that you receive the full course of PEP and reduces the risk of developing rabies.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of contracting rabies after being bitten by a rabid dog. Prompt action is key to preventing this fatal disease.