What should I do if a rabid dog bites a person? - briefly
If a person is bitten by a rabid dog, immediate action is crucial. Seek medical attention promptly and ensure the bitten individual receives appropriate post-exposure prophylaxis to prevent rabies infection.
What should I do if a rabid dog bites a person? - in detail
Rabies is a severe viral infection that affects the brain and nervous system, and it is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. If a person is bitten by a dog suspected of having rabies, immediate and decisive action is crucial. The first step is to ensure the safety of the victim and others. The bitten individual should be moved to a safe location away from the animal. It is essential to avoid direct contact with the dog's saliva or blood, as this can transmit the virus.
Next, thoroughly clean the wound. Use soap and warm water to wash the affected area for at least 15 minutes. This helps to remove any virus particles from the skin. After cleaning, apply an antiseptic solution to further reduce the risk of infection. If available, a disinfectant such as iodine or alcohol can be used.
Seeking medical attention is the next critical step. The victim should be taken to the nearest healthcare facility immediately. Medical professionals will assess the severity of the bite and the risk of rabies infection. They will also consider the animal's vaccination status and behavior. If the dog is available and can be observed for 10 days, it may be possible to determine if it is rabid. However, if the dog is not available or if it shows signs of rabies, immediate treatment is necessary.
The primary treatment for rabies exposure is post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). This involves a series of injections to prevent the virus from spreading. The first step is the administration of rabies immune globulin (RIG) around the wound site. This provides immediate protection by neutralizing the virus. Following this, a series of rabies vaccines is administered. The typical regimen includes four doses of the vaccine given over 14 days. The first dose is given as soon as possible after exposure, followed by additional doses on days 3, 7, and 14.
It is also important to report the incident to local health authorities. They can provide additional guidance and monitor the situation to prevent the spread of rabies. Health authorities may also take steps to capture and test the dog for rabies if it is still available.
In summary, if a person is bitten by a dog suspected of having rabies, immediate actions include ensuring safety, cleaning the wound, seeking medical attention, and following the prescribed treatment regimen. Prompt and appropriate measures can significantly reduce the risk of rabies infection and its potentially fatal consequences.