What to do if bitten by a dog

Jul 14, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I was accidentally bitten by a dog and am now very worried and don't know what to do. I would like to ask the doctor: what should I do after being bitten by a dog?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
After being bitten by a dog, take the following steps immediately: 1. Clean the wound: Thoroughly wash the wound with mild soap and running water for at least five minutes to remove dirt and bacteria. 2. Stop the bleeding: If the wound is bleeding, gently press a clean gauze or bandage over the wound to help stop the bleeding. Do not apply ice directly to the skin. 3. Disinfect the wound: Use povidone-iodine solution or medical alcohol to disinfect the wound to prevent infection. 4. Rabies vaccination: Seek medical attention at a hospital as soon as possible. A doctor will assess whether a rabies vaccine injection is necessary, as rabies is a fatal but preventable disease. 5. Tetanus immunization: Confirm whether you have recently received a tetanus vaccine. If not or if it has expired, your doctor may recommend vaccination. 6. Antibiotics: Depending on the condition of the wound, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. 7. Monitor symptoms: During wound healing, watch for symptoms such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or pus discharge, which are signs of infection.