Dog Bite Infections
Being bitten by a canine in North Highlands can be painful and serious, but dog bite infections can make your injury worse. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 60 types of bacteria can be found in a dog’s mouth. Fortunately, only a few of these can be transmitted to humans and cause a problem. However, some of the bacteria types can cause serious injuries or even result in death. This is one of the reasons it is important to see a physician if you or your loved one has been bitten. Receiving early treatment can make a difference in avoiding most infections from dog bites. Below, we will explore what to do after a dog bite and the types of infections that can occur.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
Treatment after a dog bite depends on its severity. However, a break in the skin can be compromised by infection, so there are warning signs to look for to prevent problems associated with dog bites.
Minor Injuries
After minor dog bites, the injury should be washed as soon as possible with soap and water. Apply an antibiotic cream and use a bandage to cover the wound. If fever develops or the injury swells, becomes painful or turns red, it’s time to seek medical attention.
More Serious Wounds
If bleeding occurs, use a dry, clean cloth to apply pressure for it to stop. If you feel weak or can’t get the bleeding stopped, either phone 911 or head to the hospital emergency room. It is recommended that you see your doctor afterward for continued treatment in order to avoid problems in the future.
Infections From a Bite
Any bite can be serious because it can result in an infection that develops into serious health risks. Some of the infections caused by canine bites include:
- Rabies: This is a rare disease in the United States, occurring less than three times each year, according to the CDC. Almost all of the animals that contract rabies are unvaccinated and catch it from their contact with wildlife. Early treatment for humans suspected of having rabies can save their lives. However, a case of rabies that has already become active is normally fatal. Symptoms of full-blown rabies include high fevers and convulsions.
- Pasteurella: Pasteurella attacks the skin and can cause cellulitis. Symptoms of Pasteurella generally appear within 24 hours after a bite. This infection can lead to cellulitis and can cause arthritis, pneumonia, and meningitis. This can result in high medical bills, lost wages, and other additional problems.
- Capnocytophaga: This infection can appear up to 14 days after a canine bite. It is a bacteria that lives in a dog’s mouth. This infection kills about 33 percent of those who contract it. Others develop sepsis or gangrene.
- Staphylococcal infections: This type of infection is caused by about 30 different bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus is the most common and can result in systemic illness. These infections can lead to cellulitis or toxic shock.
- Tetanus: Tetanus, also called lockjaw, is low risk if the person has been vaccinated. Once an individual catches tetanus, it cannot be cured and often causes death. Symptoms are difficulty swallowing, body spasms, and stiffness in the jaw, neck, and abdomen.
- Streptococcal infections may be indicated by redness, swelling, and pain at the site of the bite. Left untreated, it can quickly lead to bacteremia, which is a type of blood poisoning.
North Highlands Dog Bite Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a North Highlands dog bite lawyer. If you were bitten by a dog, you have the right to obtain financial compensation for your injuries. In California, dog owners can be held liable for the expenses related to dog bites or attacks. Contact me for my free and friendly advice at (916) 921-6400. You can also reach me toll-free at (800) 404-5400 or through my convenient contact form online.
During my career as a personal injury lawyer since 1982, I’ve upheld the rights of many North Highlands residents to fair compensation. Whether it is a wrongful death, any variety of car accident or another injury, I’m here to help.
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I am a member of both the National Association of Distinguished Counsel and Million Dollar Forum. The NADC invites members only to those lawyers that uphold the highest standards in the law. The second group is for those trial lawyers who have won more than one million dollars for a client.
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