Dealing with animal bites: 6 medical tips for prevention and treatment

Animal bites are considered medical emergencies requiring swift and appropriate action due to the serious health risks that can arise if neglected. In this context, the Gulf Health Council important warnings and guidelines on how to properly handle these injuries, emphasizing the need for preparedness and sound judgment in providing first aid to oneself or others to avoid serious complications.

General context and health risks

Historically, animal bites have posed a significant health concern for human societies, not only due to the direct physical harm of the wound, but also because of zoonotic diseases that can be transmitted through saliva and blood. Rabies, a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and is highly fatal if not treated with vaccines and immediate medical attention, is a primary risk. Therefore, raising awareness of first aid in this area is a cornerstone of public health for saving lives.

Gulf Health Council warnings

The Gulf Health Council clarified that the real danger lies in the transmission of bacterial or viral infections from animals, whether domestic or wild, to humans. The Council provided a list of the most common animals that may transmit rabies, and which necessitate immediate emergency medical attention if bitten. These animals are:

• Dogs (most common).
• Foxes.
• Bats.
• Raccoon.
• Skunk.

Causes of bites and symptoms of infection

Injuries often occur as a result of being in areas inhabited by aggressive animals or attempting to play with animals of unknown origin. Experts also warn against provoking pets, such as trying to take food from them while they are eating, which triggers their defensive instincts and causes them to attack.

It is essential to carefully monitor the site of the infection, as symptoms of infection include the following:

• Appearance of localized redness or red lines around the wound.
• Feeling warmth and heat in the affected area.
• Swelling and discharge of pus.
• Increasing pain and rising body temperature.

6 First Aid Steps (How to Deal with a Bite?)

To ensure your safety and reduce the risk of infection, it is recommended to follow the following steps carefully:

1. Personal hygiene for the paramedic: Start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching the wound to avoid transferring additional bacteria.
2. Thoroughly wash the wound: If the bleeding is minor, wash the wound under running water with soap for 3 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial to reducing the viral and bacterial load.
3. Removing impurities: Try to remove any foreign objects such as hair, dirt, or tooth debris using a stream of water.
4. Stimulating bleeding (for superficial wounds): If the wound is not bleeding, press gently to stimulate a little blood to come out, as this helps to expel germs from the inside out.
5. Stopping the bleeding (for heavy wounds): If the bleeding is severe, use a dry bandage or a clean cloth and press firmly to stop the bleeding.
6. Coverage and prevention: After ensuring the wound is clean and gently dried, apply an antibiotic ointment and cover it with a sterile bandage.

When should you go to the emergency room immediately?

First aid alone is not sufficient in the following cases; you must go to the nearest hospital:

• If the bite was from a wild or stray animal.
• If the wound is deep, large, or does not stop bleeding.
• When there is suspicion of the presence of debris (teeth or dirt) inside the wound.
• Signs of infection appear (redness, heat, pus, foul odor).
• If the injury is in sensitive areas (head, neck, hands, feet, or near joints).
• If the patient has not received a tetanus vaccine for more than 5 years.
• Exposure to a bite from a human (human bites carry a very high risk of infection).