Health experts warn dog bites pose serious infection risk
EVEN the smallest injury from a dog bite can be deadly, with health experts warning of the dangers of infection.
A Warwick Hospital spokesperson said infection was a big risk due to the type of bacteria that lives in a dog's mouth.
"Interestingly, human bites can carry a greater risk of infection than dog bites," the spokesperson said.
"Medical assistance should always be sought even if the bite does not appear to be deep."
A doctor or nurse can clean a dog bite wounds, but the injury won't be sewn up to prevent infection.
"The patient is also given antibiotics, a tetanus booster if necessary, and the wound is dressed regularly in the healing process," a hospital spokesperson said.
"First-aid treatment includes washing the wound with running water and applying pressure with a clean wrap if there is bleeding."
