The Hidden Dangers of Rabies and Other Infections
Animal bites are more than just painful wounds, they can lead to serious health risks, including infections that may have life-threatening consequences. In Georgia, where encounters with both domestic and wild animals are common, understanding the dangers of rabies, tetanus, and other infections after an animal bite is key to staying healthy.
Not only do infections pose significant health risks, but they also come with legal and financial implications that can affect victims and their families. Talk to an Atlanta dog bite lawyer about your damage recovery options.
Rabies, Tetanus, and Bacterial Infections
A feared infection resulting from animal bites, rabies is caused by a virus that attacks the central nervous system. The virus is typically transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, with bites from raccoons, bats, and unvaccinated dogs being the most common sources.
The initial symptoms of rabies can be misleadingly mild, often resembling the flu, but as the infection progresses, it leads to severe neurological symptoms such as hallucinations, paralysis, and eventually death. Immediate medical attention is crucial if you’ve been bitten, as the rabies vaccine can prevent the virus from taking hold if administered promptly.
Another serious infection that can arise from an animal bite is tetanus, particularly if the wound is deep or puncture-like. Tetanus is caused by bacteria that thrive in soil, dust, and animal feces, and the bacteria can enter the body through breaks in the skin.
Symptoms of tetanus include muscle stiffness, spasms, and difficulty swallowing, with the infection often leading to a prolonged illness that requires intensive medical treatment. Tetanus can be prevented through vaccination, but if you are bitten by an animal and your tetanus shot is not up to date, poor health outcomes are possible.
In addition to rabies and tetanus, animal bites can introduce a host of other bacteria into the body, leading to infections that may require antibiotics or even surgical intervention. For example, cat bites, which often result in puncture wounds, are particularly prone to causing infections due to the bacteria found in feline mouths. These infections can cause cellulitis, abscesses, and even sepsis if left untreated.
Infections and Financial Implications
The costs associated with treating infections from animal bites can be substantial, especially if hospitalization or long-term care is needed. Georgia dog owners are generally held liable for injuries caused by their pets if the dog was known to be dangerous or if the owner was negligent in controlling the animal.
Victims of animal bites may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. An Atlanta dog bite lawyer can help establish liability, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure that victims receive the full compensation they deserve.
Should you explore the possibility of accessing funds to pay off bills connected to an animal bite infection? If you or a loved one has been bitten by an animal, seek medical attention immediately to address any potential infections. Then, consult with the experienced attorneys at Zagoria Law. Contact us to discuss your case.
