Risk of Infection from Dog Licking a Minor Wound: What to Do?

Q: Risk of Infection from Dog Licking a Minor Wound: What to Do?

Dear Ms. Lee： 1. The Capnocytophaga canimorsus you mentioned is a bacterium found in the oral cavity of dogs, and I have never encountered or diagnosed it in my clinical practice. It is not part of the normal flora in humans. Therefore, once it enters the blood

A small wound was licked by a dog?

Hello, doctor.
This morning, I was licked on the hand by a dog owned by a community resident.
There is a small, unhealed wound in that area (a type of wound where the dry skin next to the nail was torn and bled a little).
I remember seeing news about a bacterium called Capnocytophaga canimorsus, which seems to be transmitted through dog saliva to wounds.
I washed the area with soap about thirty minutes after being licked.
Is there a possibility of infection? Do I need to seek medical attention? If so, which specialty should I consult?

Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/31

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Ms.
Lee:
1.
The Capnocytophaga canimorsus you mentioned is a bacterium found in the oral cavity of dogs, and I have never encountered or diagnosed it in my clinical practice.
It is not part of the normal flora in humans.
Therefore, once it enters the bloodstream, there is a risk of infection.
In fact, there are many types of bacteria in a dog's mouth, and Capnocytophaga canimorsus is not the only bacterium that poses a risk.
2.
Most bacteria can be effectively eliminated using soap or hand sanitizer.
Although there was a slight delay in your handwashing, theoretically, the chances of developing a systemic reaction or sepsis should be low.
However, as a precaution, I still recommend monitoring the wound for any changes.
If you notice signs of worsening or experience any discomfort, it would be advisable to consult an infectious disease specialist at a hospital.
3.
If you have further questions, I suggest discussing them with your family physician, who can also examine your wound.

Reply Date: 2019/03/31

More Info

When it comes to the risk of infection from a dog licking a minor wound, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, it is important to understand that dogs carry a variety of bacteria in their mouths, some of which can potentially cause infections in humans. One such bacterium is Capnocytophaga canimorsus, which is often mentioned in discussions about dog bites and licking wounds. While this bacterium is not commonly encountered in clinical practice, it can pose a risk, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems.

In your case, you mentioned that you had a small wound near your fingernail that was slightly bleeding when the dog licked it. The risk of infection from this scenario is generally low, especially if you promptly washed the area with soap and water afterward. Soap is effective in removing most bacteria, and the act of washing the wound helps to minimize the risk of any potential infection.

However, it is essential to monitor the wound for any signs of infection. Symptoms to watch for include increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus formation at the site of the wound. If you experience any systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, or malaise, it would be prudent to seek medical attention.

If you decide to visit a healthcare provider, it would be appropriate to see a family physician or an urgent care clinic. They can assess the wound and determine if any further treatment is necessary. In some cases, a tetanus booster may be recommended if your vaccination status is not up to date, especially if the wound is deep or if it has been more than five years since your last booster.

In summary, while there is a potential risk of infection from a dog licking a wound, the likelihood is relatively low, particularly if you have taken steps to clean the area. Observing the wound for any changes and seeking medical advice if you notice any concerning symptoms is the best course of action. Always remember that maintaining good hygiene practices, such as washing your hands after interacting with animals and promptly cleaning any wounds, can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

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