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Animal Bites and Rabies Risk

Bite wounds carry infection and rabies risk; tetanus and rabies prophylaxis must not be neglected.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Acil Servis department. Book Appointment →

What is Animal Bites and Rabies Risk?

Animal bites can occur via contact with dogs, cats, bats, or wild animals. They carry the risk of wound infection by bacteria such as Pasteurella and Capnocytophaga and, as the most serious risk, rabies virus transmission.

Rabies is a viral disease that is nearly 100% fatal once symptoms begin; therefore, rapid prophylaxis after exposure is life-saving.

Symptoms

Puncture or laceration-type wound
Local pain, swelling, and redness
Fever and signs of inflammation
Hydrophobic symptoms in rabies (late stage)
Lymph node enlargement
Tendon or bone involvement in deep wounds

Risk Factors

Contact with unvaccinated dogs or cats
Contact with wild animals such as bats, foxes, or jackals
Children's unsupervised contact with animals
Veterinary or animal caretaker occupations
Travel in regions where rabies is endemic
Immunodeficiency

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Visit an emergency department for wound cleaning after every animal bite
  • Rabies prophylaxis should be evaluated for bites by wild animals or unvaccinated pets
  • Tetanus vaccination status should be checked; a booster given if necessary
  • Be sure to see a doctor for bites on the face, hand, or joint area

Treatment Methods

01
Wash the wound with plenty of water and soap for 15 minutes
02
Sterile dressing and antibiotic prophylaxis (amoxicillin-clavulanate)
03
Tetanus toxoid and tetanus immunoglobulin if needed
04
HRIG + rabies vaccine series (days 0-3-7-14) according to rabies risk
05
Surgical debridement and follow-up for deep wounds

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Acil Servis department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.