VET ADVISES 15-MINUTE WASHING AFTER DOG BITES TO REDUCE RABIES RISK

A veterinary expert, Dr Mutiu Oladele-Bukola, has advised people bitten by dogs to immediately wash the wound with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes to help reduce the risk of rabies.

Oladele-Bukola of the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, Obafemi Awolowo University, Moor Plantation, Ibadan, gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria to mark World Rabies Day.

He urged victims to first move away from the animal safely before thoroughly flushing the wound with soap and running water.

The veterinary expert warned against applying pepper, herbs, chemicals, acids or other irritants to the wound. He also advised against tightly covering or sealing the injury.

After washing the wound, victims should seek immediate medical attention, even if the injury appears minor. Assessment may include rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis, rabies immunoglobulin for severe exposures, tetanus protection and treatment for possible bacterial infections.

Oladele-Bukola stressed that a dog bite does not automatically mean that a person has rabies, but urgent medical assessment is important when exposure to the virus is suspected.

He cited cases in Ibadan involving people bitten by stray dogs, including a five-year-old boy who later developed symptoms after not receiving PEP and died shortly after admission.

According to the World Health Organisation, rabies causes an estimated 59,000 deaths annually in more than 150 countries, with most deaths occurring in Africa and Asia. Children under 15 account for about 40 per cent of reported deaths.

The vet also identified mass vaccination of dogs as a key measure for preventing rabies transmission. Other measures include responsible dog ownership, keeping dogs from roaming freely, prompt reporting of bites and stronger cooperation between veterinary and human health authorities.

He added that under the Oyo State Dog Law 2020, dogs are required to be vaccinated from three months of age and annually thereafter.