Dog Bite Concerns: Do You Need Rabies and Tetanus Vaccines?

Bitten 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 every year.
Am I at risk of contracting rabies? Do I need to get a rabies vaccine? [Links to photos]
2.
Am I at risk of tetanus? 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, Doctor.

00, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/04/15

Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine

Hello, it is recommended to go to the hospital for wound treatment and evaluation if bitten! Online consultations cannot replace in-person examinations and assessments.

1.
No, if bitten by a domestic dog, rabies vaccination is not necessary.

2.
Any deep wound carries a risk; it is advisable to receive a tetanus vaccine if you haven't had one in the past five years.

3.
Wounds can potentially lead to bacterial infections.

4.
If there is drainage of tissue fluid, it is recommended to bandage the wound and apply medication.

Reply Date: 2023/04/15

More Info

When it comes to dog bites, there are several important considerations regarding rabies and tetanus vaccinations, as well as general 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 contracting rabies from this bite is extremely low. Rabies is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, and domestic dogs that are vaccinated are not typically carriers of the virus. However, if there is any uncertainty about the vaccination status or if the dog has shown any unusual behavior, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. In general, if the bite did not break the skin and there was no bleeding, the risk of rabies transmission is negligible. Nevertheless, if you have any doubts or if the dog starts showing signs of illness, it would be prudent to seek medical advice.

2. Tetanus Risk: Tetanus is caused by a bacterium that can enter the body through wounds, particularly deep puncture wounds. If your dog bite did not break the skin, the risk of tetanus is low. However, if the wound was deep or if you have not had a tetanus booster in the last ten years, you may need to get a booster shot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults receive a tetanus booster every ten years, or sooner if they have a dirty or contaminated wound. Since you mentioned that there was no bleeding, it is likely that you are at low risk, but it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

3. Other Diseases: Besides rabies and tetanus, dog bites can potentially expose you to other infections, such as bacterial infections from the dog's mouth. Common bacteria that can be transmitted through dog bites include Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus. If you notice any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus at the site of the bite, or if you develop a fever, you should seek medical attention promptly. Proper wound care is essential to minimize the risk of infection.

4. Wound Care: For any bite, even if it seems minor, proper wound care is crucial. Clean the area thoroughly with soap and water to remove any potential bacteria. If the skin was broken, apply an antiseptic and cover the wound with a clean bandage. Monitor the wound for any signs of infection over the next few days. If you notice any concerning symptoms, such as increased pain, swelling, or discharge, or if you develop a fever, seek medical attention immediately.

In summary, given that your dog is vaccinated against rabies and the bite did not break the skin, the risk of rabies is very low. However, it is still advisable to keep an eye on the bite site and consult with a healthcare provider regarding tetanus vaccination and wound care. Always err on the side of caution when it comes to animal bites, as timely medical intervention can prevent complications.

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