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With the growing stray dog population on streets, experts are warning people about the dangers and the need for immediate medical attention after a bite
There are three stages of treatment for a dog bite, depending on the severity of the wound.
Cases of dog bites are being reported in increasing numbers across the country, raising public concern. In many instances, delayed treatment has led to fatalities caused by rabies. With the growing stray dog population on streets, experts are warning people about the dangers and the need for immediate medical attention after a bite.
Dr Sonia, a physician at Doon Hospital in Dehradun, explained that there are three stages of treatment after a dog bite, depending on the severity of the wound. She cautioned against home remedies such as applying chilli or turmeric, which can worsen the infection. Instead, she advised washing the wound thoroughly under running water and applying antiseptic cream in the first stage, when the skin is only exposed.
In the second and third stages, when the dog’s teeth puncture the skin or when flesh is torn, the treatment becomes more critical. In such cases, doctors recommend washing the wound with clean water or povidone-iodine to reduce infection risk, followed by the application of rabies immunoglobulin and antiseptic medicines such as betadine.
Dr Sonia further warned that when flesh is torn, the chances of tetanus increase, making a tetanus injection necessary. She also advised against stitching dog bite wounds, as this can lead to complications. In addition, patients are prescribed antibiotics to prevent further infection.
Timely vaccination plays a vital role in preventing rabies. Under the post-exposure prophylaxis protocol, five doses of the rabies vaccine are administered. The first, known as the ‘zero dose’, is given on the day of the bite (day 0), followed by doses on days 3, 7, 21, and, if required, day 28.
At Doon Hospital alone, 15 to 20 dog bite cases are reported daily, reflecting the seriousness of the issue. Doctors emphasise that immediate medical attention can save lives and caution the public never to delay or rely on home remedies.