What to do when bitten by a street dog?

KATHMANDU: A street dog bite can lead to serious health risks, especially if the dog is rabid.

Here’s what you should do if you are bitten:

Stay calm & assess the situation:

• Do not panic. Quickly assess the extent of the bite and your surroundings.
• Try to determine if the dog was showing signs of rabies, like aggression or foaming at the mouth.

Clean the wound:

• Immediately wash the bite area with soap and clean water for at least 15 minutes. This helps reduce the risk of infection.
• Avoid using antiseptics or alcohol initially, as they can damage the tissue.

Stop the bleeding:

• If the wound is bleeding, apply pressure with a clean cloth or bandage to stop it.

Seek medical attention:

• It is crucial to visit a doctor as soon as possible. Even if the bite seems minor, rabies is a serious threat and requires immediate attention.
• The doctor may recommend a tetanus shot and administer a rabies vaccination series (post-exposure prophylaxis or PEP), depending on the circumstances.

Report the incident:

• Report the dog bite to local authorities or animal control so they can track the dog and possibly catch it for rabies testing.
• If possible, try to remember the dog’s physical characteristics or location.

Monitor for symptoms:

• In the days following the bite, watch for symptoms like fever, headache, and unusual behavior. If any symptoms appear, seek medical help immediately.

By following these steps, you can reduce the risk of infection and ensure proper treatment after a dog bite.

Always prioritize safety, and don’t hesitate to seek help from healthcare professionals.