Dog Bite First Aid: What Should You Do Immediately?
Dr.N Sravani — Pediatrician Sri Gorantla Super Speciality Hospital, Chirala
What to do after a Dog Bite?
A dog bite should never be ignored, especially in areas where rabies is a concern. Immediate and proper wound care is the first important step after a bite.
If you or someone around you is bitten by a dog, follow these steps:
1. Wash the Wound Immediately
Place the wound under clean, running tap water and wash it thoroughly for at least 15 minutes. Washing the wound properly helps remove saliva, dirt and potentially infectious material from the bite area.
2. Clean the Wound With Soap
After or while flushing the wound, use soap or detergent and plenty of water to clean the affected area thoroughly. Do not scrub aggressively in a way that causes additional tissue damage
3. Avoid Home Remedies and Clean With Betadine
Do not apply turmeric, other home remedies to a dog-bite wound. These can contaminate or irritate the wound. After thoroughly washing the wound with running water and soap,clean the affected area with Betadine (povidone-iodine) antiseptic solution, if available.
Then, visit the nearest hospital as soon as possible for proper evaluation and further treatment.
"If you are bitten by a dog, don't panic or apply home remedies. Wash the wound with running water and soap for 15 minutes, clean it with Betadine, and seek medical care immediately."
- Dr. N.Sravani, Pediatrician, Sri Gorantla Super Speciality Hospital, Chirala
Watch — Dr. N Sravani Explains First aid Treatment for Dog Bite in Telugu
Sri Gorantla Super Speciality Hospital, Chirala can assess the injury and guide you regarding the appropriate rabies prevention and wound-care measures.
