What to do if bitten by a dog
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?
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.