A dog’s mouth is home to many different strains of bacteria. This can further complicate a dog bite wound. The diseases that are caused by dog bites are each responsible for numerous infections when they enter our bodies. Infections like:
- Cellulitis
- Meningitis
- Rabies
- Lymphangitis
- Endocarditis
- Tetanus
Dog bite victims need first aid immediately for thorough cleaning and dressing of the wound. The severity of the wound will determine if medical attention is needed as well. Medical professionals will assess the wound and then take the steps necessary to limit the risk of infection. This includes a variety of procedures like flushing out the wound, providing stitches, and taking other protective measures such as prescribing antibiotics.
The Types of Bacteria Found in Dog Bites
In order to better understand what diseases result from dog bites, you need to consider the source. That being, the bacteria that manifests the diseases in the first place. Through research, it has been revealed that hundreds of bacteria strains are within the wounds of animal bites. Some, of course, are more common than others. No matter the strain and species of bacteria in a dog bite wound it will impact how quickly an infection develops, symptoms and severity.
Other complications that develop after a dog wound bite can be sepsis and septic shock. If left untreated, the development of septic shock can rapidly lead to organ and system failure.
Heart attacks, strokes, and pneumonia are not ruled out entirely either. It is crucial to keep an eye on the infected area for any signs of infection in the hours and days immediately following the bite. Complications can and will develop quickly.
Symptoms of an Infected Dog Bite
Infections are known to develop in dog bites between 5%-15% of the time, despite the 5 million animal bites that happen each year. Since they are very common, victims should take the bites seriously to limit any further harm. Watch out for:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Development of pus
- Fever
- Pain in the muscles or joints
- Swollen lymph nodes
There is a great risk of contracting an infection after a dog bite. This is also why you want to check with the owner on the dog’s vaccination history and be up to date on your own health. Individuals most at risk for infection are those with compromised immune systems, children, and the elderly. In the event you sustain a dog bite that leads to an infection, you may be entitled to compensation.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog, you should seek medical attention immediately. You must follow all of the doctor’s orders for your legal claim to proceed successfully. Should you veer from the doctor’s orders, you risk having the claim dismissed. Let the Philadelphia dog bite attorneys at Kwartler Manus fight for your right to compensation.
Contact a Philadelphia Dog Bite Attorney Today
Dog bites have a history of occurring in the victim’s home while others may involve another person’s animal. In some cases, it can be considered an act of negligence. As such, if a neighbor allowed their dog to roam without a leash and the dog bit you, you may be eligible for filing a personal injury case.
Our team at Kwartler Manus offers the best quality support to you and reviews your case thoroughly. Our Philadelphia dog bite attorneys are dedicated to advocating for victims of dog bites and other injuries sustained because of negligence. Call us today at (267) 457-5570 for a free consultation and further information on legal proceedings.