Effective First Aid for Dog Bite Wounds: Quick Steps

As living standards rise and lifestyles evolve, the number of households with pets is on the increase. Consequently, incidents of accidental bites by dogs or other animals have become more frequent, especially during the spring, when many animals are in heat, and during the hot summer months. If bitten by a dog or another animal, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately to receive the rabies vaccine. But what if you are bitten again after having already been vaccinated? The answer depends on the duration since your last vaccination.

What to Do If You're Bitten by a Dog or Other Animal After Receiving the Rabies Vaccine

According to pet experts, if you are bitten by a dog or another animal after having completed the vaccination series, you should simply follow the original immunization schedule; there is no need to increase the dose or the number of shots. This is because the previous immunization plan remains effective. If the bite occurs within six months after the full course of vaccination, no additional shots are required; however, if the bite is on the head, or if it's from a rabid, wild, or疑似 rabid animal, a booster shot is necessary. If the bite happens between six months and one year after completing the full course, a booster shot is also recommended. If the bite occurs between one and three years after the full course, immediate vaccination is required.

What to Do If Bitten by a Dog

Rabies has no cure, and it is a highly fatal disease. However, timely vaccination can provide effective prevention. Therefore, it's essential to get vaccinated if you are bitten or scratched by any animal, as they can also carry the rabies virus. In the event of a bite from a dog or another animal, regardless of how long it has been since your last vaccination, you should rinse the wound with 20% soap water or clean water for 15 to 20 minutes, trying to expel any blood around the wound. This helps to remove any viruses or bacteria from the wound. Afterward, apply alcohol or iodine as a disinfectant. Following this emergency treatment, it is vital to seek medical attention for the rabies vaccine as soon as possible. The sooner you get vaccinated, the better. Additionally, if an animal licks a wound on a person's body, it poses the same risk as a bite, and immediate vaccination is necessary after disinfection.

Remember: To prevent being bitten or scratched by dogs, cats, and other animals, avoid using your hands or calling them to provoke them. Never intentionally or unintentionally provoke their anger.

Tip: Click How to Prevent Rabies Virus to learn about methods to prevent rabies.