After a dog bite, you may wonder “Do I Need to Get a Dog Bite Tetanus Shot?” The bacteria that causes tetanus can pass through the puncture of a dog bite and enter the bloodstream. Tetanus can cause serious health complications and can be life-threatening depending on the stage it is caught.
When Was Your Last Tetanus Shot?
Few people may know when they last received their tetanus shot, so after a dog bite, a doctor may recommend getting one. We’ve discussed why you should get a tetanus shot if recommended by your physician in this blog post “Should You Get a Tetanus Shot After a Dog Bite?”.
What is Tetanus?
Tetanus is an infection caused by a bacteria. This bacteria is commonly found in soil, dust, and animal waste. It can enter the body through wounds or breaks in the skin. Entering the body only requires the smallest of puncture wounds or even just a scrape. When it enters the body it produces a toxin called tetanospasmin that affects the nervous system.
Symptoms of Tetanus
Tetanus is often called “lockjaw” as one of the common symptoms is a tightening of the jaw muscles. Tetanus can cause serious health problems. Muscle spasms so severe they can break bones, fever, changes in heart rate and blood pressure, and blood clots in the lungs are some of the common symptoms people experience. A small number of cases can lead to death.
Preventing Tetanus
There is no known cure for Tetanus, so prevention with a “tetanus shot after a dog bite” is the best possible method to keep from contracting it. All children should be receiving a series of tetanus shots beginning at 2 months old. After that series, an individual should receive a tetanus booster every 10 years.
Getting your wound cleaned thoroughly by a doctor can also help to prevent infection.
Individual risk will vary depending on all of the circumstances that apply to your situation. This might include if you’ve had your tetanus vaccination or booster and how dirty the wound is. A doctor is the best person to determine medical care after a dog bite or a dog attack.
Costs After a Dog Bite
The average cost for a hospital stay related to a dog bite is $18,200 according to a 2008 study. Costs for treatment can add up but your health is your most important asset.
It is often when people start to realize the true costs involved after a dog bite that they will seek out a dog bite lawyer to see if they’re eligible for compensation to cover their costs. It is not always easy to determine at first what the ongoing consequences of some dog bite attacks or bites will be. Dog bite injuries can sometimes have a cascade effect causing other issues or problems at a later time.
After a dog bite, it is always best to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Clean the wound. Take pictures of your wounds. Try to find out if the dog is up to date with vaccinations. Follow the treatment prescribed by the doctor and keep any receipts or records.
While tetanus is rare, it’s not unheard of. It is one of the things you will need to consider after being bitten or scratched by a dog.
Contact a Dog Bite Attorney
If you’ve experienced a dog bite, you may wish to speak to a dog bite lawyer to discuss your case. Often this isn’t an initial thought but medical bills and time off work can add up.
The dog’s owner is responsible for any damages caused by the animal. If they are unwilling to pay for damages, speak with a dog bite lawyer. Understand the options available to you. Contact Jeffrey Harlan Penneys for a free consultation with an experienced dog bite attorney.
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