I was bitten by a dog when I was 5 or 6, now Im 14. I was bitten in my right leg. I was bought to a traditional healer, instead of a medical doctor. The dog that bit me wasnt vaccinated before it bit me, it was alive for 3 months, and then it was sold. I am okay now, but what Im worrying about is it wasnt washed with water and soap when I had the wound. This is my question, is it okay if it wasnt washed? will I be alright?
Hello, Welcome to Chat Doctor, Rabies is a 100 fatal, but it is 100% preventable with proper and adequate treatment. As you were bitten by an unvaccinated dog when you were 5-6 years old and know you are 14-year-old. For any dog bite the wound should be thoroughly washed with soap and water for 15 mins under the running water, which will wash off the virus if any at the bite site. As you have not washed the wound when it had bitten you 8 years, it is not a good practice. As 8 years have elapsed following your episode of dog bit and as you have not developed any symptoms of rabies till now nothing to worry. But it is not a good practice. 99 5 of the treatment lies in proper wound toileting. Thank you.