Animal Bites

Wild animals usually avoid people, but may attack if they feel threatened, are sick, or are protecting their young or territory. Attacks by pets — dogs, cats — are more common. Animal bites are rarely immediately life-threatening, but bites can become infected or transmit serious diseases. In India, the single biggest concern after any animal bite is rabies — a near-100%-fatal disease that is fully preventable if treated early. Snakebite is the other major concern; India has the highest number of snakebite deaths in the world, largely rural and agricultural.

If an animal bites you — what to do

• Wash the wound immediately with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes. This single step, done early, substantially lowers rabies risk.
• Apply antiseptic (povidone-iodine / alcohol) if available.
• Go to a hospital or primary health centre as soon as possible — do not wait. Free rabies post-exposure treatment (anti-rabies vaccine, and immunoglobulin for deep bites) is available at government hospitals.
• For any snakebite, go to the nearest hospital immediately. Do NOT tie a tight tourniquet, do NOT try to cut or suck the wound, and do NOT apply herbal remedies or ice. Keep the bitten limb still and below heart level, and get to a hospital that has anti-snake venom (ASV) — government district hospitals stock it.
• In an emergency, dial 112.

Prevention

• Do not pet, handle, or feed unknown animals — especially stray dogs and monkeys
• Watch children closely around animals
• Vaccinate pet dogs and cats against rabies regularly
• Spay or neuter dogs — less aggressive behaviour
• Keep tetanus booster up to date
• In snake-country rural areas: wear boots and long trousers, carry a torch at night, clear bushes near houses, use bednets, and keep homes free of food waste that attracts rodents (snakes follow rodents)