Bengaluru: In recent years, incidents of stray dog menaces and dog bites have been rising at an alarming rate across India. Last year alone, over 3.7 million cases were reported in the country, with precious lives being lost to Rabies. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is a matter of grave concern that 36% of the world's total Rabies deaths occur in India.

Why is Rabies Dangerous?

Apart from Rabies, a dog bite can also spread fatal diseases such as Sepsis and Meningitis. According to recent reports, 17 people have died of Rabies in Bengaluru in the last six months alone. Therefore, taking immediate precautionary measures after a dog bite can be life-saving.

What to Do Immediately After a Dog Bite? (First Aid)

1. Do Not Panic:

Stay calm first. Move to a safe location to ensure the dog does not attack again.

2. Clean the Wound (The Most Important Step):

Immediately wash the bitten area thoroughly with soap and running tap water for at least 10 to 15 minutes. This reduces the concentration of the virus that may enter the body through the dog's saliva.

3. Stop the Bleeding:

If the wound is bleeding, apply light pressure using a clean cloth. If the bleeding does not stop, rush to the hospital immediately.

4. Use an Antiseptic:

After washing the wound, apply an antiseptic containing Povidone-iodine or alcohol, if available.

5. Do Not Bandage Tightly:

Do not get stitches or apply a tight bandage to a dog bite wound immediately. Doing so increases the chances of the virus spreading deeper into the body.

Medical Treatment is Mandatory

It is compulsory to see a doctor within 24 hours of a dog bite. Based on the severity of the wound, doctors will provide the following treatment:

* ARV (Anti-Rabies Vaccine): The vaccine against Rabies.

* RIG (Rabies Immunoglobulin): An injection administered around the wound site.

* Tetanus Injection and antibiotics if necessary.

There is no cure for Rabies once symptoms appear, but it can be 100% prevented through timely vaccination.