Dog and cat bites can be serious situations that require immediate attention, especially in light of the increasing number of deaths due to rabies in Vietnam. Dr. Tran Huynh Tan from VNVC Vaccination System emphasizes the importance of properly handling these bites, as they pose a significant risk of infection.
According to statistics from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, there have been 44 deaths due to rabies in 23 provinces and cities in the first half of the year, a 30% increase from the same period in 2023. Additionally, there have been 96,561 reported cases of dog and cat bites and scratches requiring preventive treatment. Rabies has a 100% mortality rate, making it crucial to take immediate action after being bitten or scratched by an animal.
After being bitten or scratched by an animal, one of the most important steps is to clean the wound thoroughly. The rabies virus is mainly present in the animal’s saliva but can also be found in hair and nails. Washing the wound with soap and water for at least 15 minutes followed by disinfecting with alcohol can help reduce the risk of infection. It is also important to stop bleeding and seek medical attention if necessary as soon as possible if your wound is deep or bleeding significantly.
Vaccination is currently the only preventive treatment for rabies available. People who have been bitten by dogs or cats need to get vaccinated as soon as possible after seeking medical advice on which regimen is appropriate based on their specific situation. Monitoring both yourself and the animal after a bite is also essential since rabies can take up to ten days to develop symptoms before becoming fatal.
It’s essential to follow proper vaccination protocols and seek medical advice if necessary while taking all necessary precautions after being bitten by an animal or scratched by them. By doing so, individuals can protect themselves from severe health consequences associated with rabies infection while ensuring their overall well-being.
