Common Infections From Dog Bites

Dog bite wounds can present hidden dangers in addition to the immediately obvious physical damage done. Bacteria found in a dog’s mouth can enter the bloodstream from a puncture wound or scratch – potentially spreading infections and diseases. While rabies is the most talked-about dog bite disease, a victim may be at risk for many different infections. If you are bitten by an unsecured or dangerous dog, call the dog bite lawyers at the Doan Law Firm for assistance.

Capnocytophaga

Dog and cat bites can lead to a rare infection known as Capnocytophaga. This is a group of bacteria found in the mouths of certain animals that, under the right conditions, can result in a serious infection. People who are immunocompromised are at a higher risk of developing this infection. 

The symptoms of a Capnocytophaga infection include redness and swelling around the wound, pain, fever, diarrhea, headache, vomiting, and confusion. Capnocytophaga is an uncommon but particularly deadly type of dog bite infection. It leads to death in about 30 percent of human cases.

Streptococcus and Staphylococcus

The introduction of Streptococcus (strep) and Staphylococcus (staph) bacteria through a dog bite wound can lead to serious infections and related cellulitis. Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that can affect the first and second layers of skin (the epidermis and dermis) as well as deeper subcutaneous tissues. It can cause swelling, redness, and tenderness or pain in the affected area.

Pasteurellosis

Pasteurellosis is an infection caused by Pasteurella multocida bacteria, which can be transmitted to humans from dog or animal bites and scratches. The most common form of this infection presents rapidly, typically within 24 hours of the incident. The victim may notice issues such as severe swelling, redness and intense pain at the bite site. Signs of cellulitis and abscesses are also common.

Tetanus

Tetanus is caused by the bacteria Clostridium tetani, which can be found in animal saliva and enters the body through puncture wounds from dog attacks. Although rare, if the victim does not have an up-to-date tetanus shot, this infection can lead to muscle stiffness, lockjaw and other nervous system disorders by affecting the spinal cord and brain.

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that can be passed from an infected dog to a person through a bite or scratch that breaks the skin. If an individual doesn’t receive a rabies shot right away, before symptoms start, rabies is deadly. While there is a vaccine to prevent it, there is no known cure once contracted. 

How to Prevent Dog Bite Infections

Getting professional medical care right away after a dog bite injury in Texas is instrumental in preventing related infections and diseases. Wound cleaning, debridement, antibiotics and post-exposure prophylaxis for potential diseases such as rabies can all minimize the risk of serious health complications.

If left untreated, dog-bite infections can lead to serious and even fatal health problems. Common examples are septicemia (blood poisoning), septic shock, organ failure and tissue necrosis. Always get immediate medical treatment from a clinic or hospital after a dog attack to protect your health and safety.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack in Texas and suffered a related infection, contact a dog bite injury lawyer to discuss a potential injury claim or lawsuit. You may be entitled to financial compensation for your various losses.