ANIMAL BITES IN CHILDREN
Animal bites that break the skin are cuts, puncture wounds, or scrapes. However, animal bites may result in serious complications. First, animal bites often become infected by the bacteria in the animal’s mouth. Second, animal bites may cause tetanus (lockjaw) or rabies.
Tetanus (lockjaw) is a serious disease caused by a germ that lives in soil, dust, and the intestines and intestinal wastes of animals and humans. It can easily enter the body through puncture wounds or scratches caused by animal bites and claw wounds. A vaccine to prevent tetanus is available.
Rabies is unknown in Australia. It is a fatal disease of the central nervous system that may affect any mammal. It is caused by a virus that can be identified within the brain of an affected animal. Rabies is transmitted through the saliva of the sick animal.
Signs and symptoms
Even in younger children, an animal bite is usually obvious from its appearance. It is sometimes difficult to tell a bite from a claw wound; however, claw wounds should be treated in the same way as bites because a claw wound can also contain bacteria from the animal’s saliva. U the bite has caused a bruise, but there is no break in the skin, you do not need to worry about tetanus.
Home care
Scrub the wound with soap and water for five to ten minutes and flush with water. Apply antiseptic to minor wounds. Report the wound to your doctor immediately for advice concerning tetanus, and repair of the wound. Let your doctor know when your child was most recently vaccinated against tetanus.
The chance of an animal bite becoming infected is very high. If redness begins spreading out from the wound, or if the wound becomes more tender, call your doctor.
Precautions
• Be sure your child has regular tetanus boosters.
• Always contact your doctor about treatment in the case of animal bites.
Medical treatment
Because of the high possibility of infection, your doctor may decide not to stitch the wound. However, if the wound is located where scarring is not desirable (such as on the face), the doctor may choose to stitch the wound. Before stitching, treatment first includes removing the injured tissue and a thorough cleansing. Antibiotics taken by mouth may be prescribed. If necessary, your doctor may give the child a tetanus booster or antitoxin (a substance that counteracts the poisonous effects of the tetanus germ).
*12/84/5*
Related Posts:
0 comments
Leave a comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.
Read more
« DIABETES: QUESTIONS ASKED BY CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE
CHILDREN HEALTH: MEDICINE CHEST »