What should you do if you are bitten by a rabid dog? - briefly
If you are bitten by a rabid dog, immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 15 minutes. Then, seek medical attention promptly to receive the rabies vaccine as soon as possible to prevent infection.
What should you do if you are bitten by a rabid dog? - in detail
If you have been bitten by a rabid dog, immediate action is crucial to prevent the onset of rabies. Here are the steps you should follow:
-
Clean the Wound Thoroughly: Use soap and warm water to clean the bite area gently but thoroughly. This helps remove any saliva that may contain the rabies virus. Do not scrub the wound, as this could cause further tissue damage.
-
Control Bleeding: Apply pressure to the wound using a clean cloth or bandage to control bleeding. If the bleeding is severe or does not stop after a few minutes, seek immediate medical attention.
-
Do Not Attempt to Remove Saliva: Do not try to suck out the saliva or wash the wound with chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide or iodine, as these can cause tissue damage and complicate treatment.
-
Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Go to the nearest healthcare facility as soon as possible. Rabies is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment can prevent the development of symptoms. Inform the medical staff that you have been bitten by a rabid dog so they can provide the appropriate care.
-
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): The healthcare provider will likely recommend a series of vaccinations known as post-exposure prophylaxis. This involves administering human rabies immunoglobulin (HRIG) and a rabies vaccine. HRIG provides immediate protection by neutralizing the virus, while the vaccine helps your body develop long-term immunity.
-
Follow the Vaccination Schedule: It is essential to complete the full course of vaccinations as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Typically, this involves an initial dose followed by booster shots on days 3, 7, and 14 after the first injection.
-
Monitor for Symptoms: Even with prompt treatment, it is crucial to monitor for any signs of rabies infection. These may include fever, headache, weakness, and discomfort or tingling at the bite site. If you experience any of these symptoms, notify your healthcare provider immediately.
-
Report the Incident: Inform local health authorities about the dog bite incident. This helps in tracking potential rabies cases and taking necessary public health measures to prevent further spread of the disease.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing rabies after a dog bite. Prompt action and compliance with medical advice are vital for protecting your health.