By Fortunate Masikati-
A dog bite is an injury caused when a dog’s teeth break the skin.

Dog bites are dangerous because they can cause:
Infection
Severe bleeding
Tissue damage
Rabies (a deadly viral infection)

Why Are Dog Bites Dangerous?
The biggest danger of a dog bite is Rabies.
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the brain and nervous system.
Once symptoms start, rabies is almost always fatal.
Dogs are the main source of rabies transmission in many countries.

Signs That a Dog May Have Rabies
Excessive drooling
Aggressive or unusual behavior
Fear of water
Paralysis
Restlessness

⚠️ But remember: Even a normal-looking dog can carry rabies.

FIRST AID FOR BITE
If someone is bitten:
✅ 1. Wash the wound immediately
Wash with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.
This is the most important step.
✅ 2. Apply antiseptic
Use iodine or alcohol if available.
✅ 3. Go to the nearest health facility immediately
Do NOT wait.
The person need anti-rabies vaccine.

❌ DO NOT:
.Apply herbs
.Tie a tight bandage
.Ignore small wounds
.Delay going to the clinic

💉 Treatment at the Health Facility
Anti-rabies vaccine
Tetanus injection
Antibiotics (if needed)
Rabies immunoglobulin (for severe bites)
👉 The vaccine must be completed as scheduled.

⚠️ When Is a Bite High Risk?
Bite from a stray dog
Unvaccinated dog
Deep wound
Bite on face, neck, or hands
Dog behaving strangely

Prevention of Dog Bites

1. Vaccinate Dogs
   Dog vaccination prevents rabies spread.
   🚸 2. Teach Children:
   Do not provoke dogs
   Do not disturb a dog that is eating
   Do not approach stray dogs
   Do not run away from an aggressive dog
   🏠 3. Responsible Dog Ownership
   Keep dogs secured
   Regular vaccination
   Avoid allowing dogs to roam freely Important Message: Rabies is preventable but deadly if untreated.
   If bitten: ➡️ Wash immediately
   ➡️ Go to clinic immediately
   ➡️ Complete vaccination Conclusion
   NB: Dog bites are a medical emergency.