Attorneys
Last Updated: 6/8/2023
Yes, people who are bitten by a dog may contract diseases from the dog bite. Some of them can even be life-threatening. Rabies is the most well-known, but certain types of infections may become serious, too. Read on to find out which ones.
Possible Diseases from Dog Bites
Rabies: This is a disease that attacks the central nervous system and can result in death unless treated immediately. Symptoms of rabies include fever, headache and muscle pains. As it progresses, the person can develop inflammation in the brain, suffer seizures, paralysis and may even end up in a coma.
Staph infection: Staph bacteria are not uncommon, and most people who carry the bacteria do not become infected. However, a dog attack or bite can puncture the tissue and allow the bacteria to enter deep into the body, causing infection. Symptoms may vary greatly, which is why medical attention is so important after any bite. Pain, fever and severe headache are common symptoms.
Pasteurella infection: Pasteurella multocida is another common bacterium that may cause infection after an animal or dog bite. It may cause pain and swelling in the area as well as joint infections.
Tetanus: This is an infection that affects the nervous system. It may cause muscle spasms and contractions such as in the jaw, e.g. lockjaw. Those who haven’t had a tetanus booster within a certain timeframe – many recommend every 10 years – like recent dog bite victims, may be encouraged by their doctors to get a tetanus shot.
Filing a Dog Bite Claim
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, see your doctor as soon as possible. When someone has been seriously or fatally injured after a dog bite, compensation may be available to cover damages.
A claim filed with help from a personal injury lawyer in Dubuque against a liable dog owner can address damages such as:
- medical costs;
- lost wages; and
- pain and suffering.
Those wishing to consult a personal injury lawyer in Dubuque can contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to set up a consultation to discuss a dog attack and any damages suffered including medical bills, such as those to treat injury or disease from the dog bite (888) 435-9886.
