Preventing Tetanus After a California Dog Bite

Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection which often results in permanent injury or death. Because the bacteria’s spores are found in soil, it is possible for tetanus to be transmitted through dog bites and dog claw scratches which break the skin. Although tetanus is an extremely dangerous infection, it is important to understand it is 100-percent preventable. Here’s how:

• Immunize yourself and your children. Most infants in the United States are immunized against tetanus, and most ten-year-olds receive a second immunization as well. However, it is important to know you need a tetanus booster every ten years to keep your vaccine current.
• Educated yourself on avoiding dog attacks. Perhaps the best way to avoid contracting a bacterial infection from a dog is to avoid a dog bite altogether. Review dog bite safety with your children on a regular basis.
• Seek professional medical help when you are bitten by a dog. It is not uncommon for dogs to have tetanus bacteria in their mouths and on their paw because of the time they spend outside. If your skin is broken in a dog attack, go to a doctor to have the wound cleaned and ask your doctor if you need a tetanus booster.
• Know the signs and symptoms of tetanus. It’s better to be safe than sorry: muscle spasms, a locked jaw, or an arched back are all classic signs of a tetanus infection. In addition, drooling, sweating, fever, irritability, and difficulty breathing can all be signs of tetanus poisoning.

A dog attack and dog bite injury can have serious and even deadly consequences. If you have been injured by a dog bite in California, you may deserve compensation. Call the Newport Beach dog bite lawyers at Russell & Lazarus to learn more about your possible personal injury case.