This is a misunderstanding, because, in the past, you may have noticed that rabid animals have a fear of water by screaming and a show of distress when they drink water. That’s why it’s called hydrophobia. Rabid animals are, in fact, not afraid of water, but cannot swallow water or food, because of the paralysis of the throat muscles, larynx, and esophagus, making them choke and causing a lot of pain, resembling fear of water. bangkok university
What to do when bitten or scratched by a dog or a cat?
Once you have been bitten or scratched by a dog or cat, whether it’s your own, someone else’s”, or “a stray” dog, remember this tip well, “wash the wound, apply the medicine, cage the dog, and see the doctor”. Quickly wash your wounds with clean water and soap to remove any saliva, then apply antiseptic. This can be a tincture, iodine, or betadine. If it is an unknown animal or even a pet that has been vaccinated, keep watch of the animal by locking or grounding it for about two weeks. If the animal has unusual symptoms or dies, immediately notify the treating physician. Once you have applied the antiseptic, seek immediate medical attention and get a rabies vaccine and tetanus shot.
In case of major and deep puncture wounds or the bites are in an area with a large number of blood vessels, such as the face or near the brain, the doctor may consider injecting immunoglobulin to destroy the virus more effectively. Although rabies is a lethal disease, immediate medical attention can save lives.
Cure for rabies
In the past, we have probably heard that the only treatment for rabies is the 21 shots around one’s belly button. Currently, the treatment is only 4-5 shots (on days 0, 3, 7, and 28) and injections do not have to be done around the navel. It’s the physician’s discretion if intramuscular, intradermal, or immunoglobulin injection is needed.
When can I get a rabies vaccination?
The best prevention is rabies vaccination. Pet owners should take their pets to have their rabies vaccines annually, as determined by a veterinarian. Dogs and cats of 3 months and older can be vaccinated and boosted annually. In addition, people need to be in regular contact or those who are at risk of being bitten, such as veterinarians, animals groomers, animal farm keepers, and people who are in close contact with animals regularly, (including many occupations that are at risk of being bitten, such as postal workers or home delivery workers) should also receive rabies vaccines (but a different kind from animal vaccines).
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