Do I need a rabies vaccine if bitten by a puppy?
Generally speaking, rabies vaccination is required after being bitten by a puppy. If any symptoms develop, prompt medical attention is recommended. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Rabies is an acute infectious disease caused by the rabies virus. Its incubation period varies in length, but once clinical symptoms appear, the disease progresses rapidly and has an extremely high fatality rate. The rabies virus primarily enters the body through broken skin or mucous membranes. When bitten by a puppy, the virus may enter the body through the wound and cause infection. Therefore, receiving a rabies vaccine after being bitten by a puppy is a crucial measure to protect personal health.
After being bitten by a puppy, the wound should immediately be washed thoroughly with soap and running water alternately to remove viruses and bacteria from the surface. After washing, the wound should be disinfected with an antiseptic such as iodine or alcohol to reduce the risk of infection. When interacting with pets, one should always exercise caution to avoid bites. Additionally, maintaining pet health and ensuring they receive regular vaccinations are also essential components of rabies prevention.