Bitten on the hand by my own dog?
Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask four questions:
1.
I was bitten on my finger by my dog around midnight on April 13.
The bite site is shown in the photos linked here.
There was no bleeding, and I'm not sure if there are other bite marks.
My dog is two years old and receives rabies vaccinations annually.
Is there a possibility that I could contract rabies? Do I need to get a rabies vaccine? [Links to photos]
2.
Is there a risk of tetanus from this bite? Should I get a tetanus vaccine?
3.
Is there a risk of contracting other diseases from this bite?
4.
Do I need to take any specific measures for the bite site? Thank you.
Xiansheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/04/13
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1.
Currently, rabies in Taiwan only occurs in wild animals such as badgers and civets, and there is no transmission among domestic dogs and cats.
Additionally, your pet dog has been vaccinated against rabies, so the likelihood of contracting rabies from being bitten by your own dog is extremely low, and there is no need for rabies vaccination.
2.
For wounds caused by animal bites or scratches, while tetanus may not necessarily occur, it is recommended to receive a tetanus vaccine as a precaution, unless you have been vaccinated within the past 10 years.
3.
The more common diseases associated with animal bites or scratches are tetanus and cellulitis due to infection.
4.
For wounds caused by animal bites or scratches, it is advisable to disinfect and clean the wound with povidone-iodine and saline, followed by applying an antibiotic ointment.
Furthermore, even if the wound is deep, it is not recommended to suture it immediately to avoid infection.
Reply Date: 2023/04/13
More Info
When it comes to dog bites, there are several important considerations regarding rabies, tetanus, and wound care. Let's address your questions one by one.
1. Rabies Risk: Since your dog is two years old and has been vaccinated against rabies annually, the risk of rabies transmission is significantly reduced. Rabies is primarily a concern if the animal is unvaccinated or if it shows signs of illness. However, it's crucial to assess the bite itself. Even if there was no bleeding, any puncture or break in the skin can potentially allow for infection. Given that rabies is a serious disease, if you have any doubts about the vaccination status of your dog or if the dog exhibits any unusual behavior, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. They may recommend post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) with rabies vaccine if there is any uncertainty about the dog's health or vaccination status.
2. Tetanus Risk: Tetanus is caused by a bacterium that can enter the body through wounds, especially deep puncture wounds. If your tetanus vaccination is up to date (typically every ten years), you may not need a booster. However, if it has been more than five years since your last booster and the wound is deep or contaminated, it is advisable to receive a tetanus booster. It's always best to check with your healthcare provider regarding your vaccination history and the nature of the bite.
3. Other Diseases: Dog bites can potentially transmit other infections, including bacterial infections such as those caused by *Pasteurella* species, which are commonly found in the mouths of dogs. Symptoms of infection can include redness, swelling, warmth, and pus at the site of the bite. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly. Additionally, if the dog was not vaccinated or if you are unsure of its health status, there may be a risk of other zoonotic diseases, although these are less common.
4. Wound Care: Proper wound care is essential to prevent infection. Here are some steps you should take:
- Clean the Wound: Immediately wash the bite area with soap and water for at least 15 minutes. This helps to remove any bacteria that may have entered the wound.
- Disinfect: After cleaning, apply an antiseptic solution to the area.
- Cover the Wound: Use a sterile bandage to cover the wound to protect it from further injury and contamination.
- Monitor for Infection: Keep an eye on the wound for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge. If any of these occur, seek medical attention.
In summary, while the risk of rabies is low given your dog's vaccination status, it is important to monitor the wound and your health closely. If you have any concerns about tetanus or potential infections, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment. Proper wound care and monitoring are key to preventing complications from dog bites.
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