People who are infected with Capnocytophaga can have a range of signs and symptoms such as:
After being bitten, most people who become ill will show symptoms within 3 to 5 days, but this can range anywhere from 1 to 14 days.
About 3 in 10 people who develop a severe infection die. Some infections can progress very quickly, result in sepsis, and lead to death within 24 to 72 hours after symptoms start.
If you have been bitten by a dog or cat, wash the bite area right away with soap and water, and call your doctor, even if you don’t feel sick. This is because dog and cat bites can pose a risk for rabies, as well as Capnocytophaga. Related Links
Most Capnocytophaga infections usually occur with dog or cat bites. But some people who develop a Capnocytophaga infection have not been bitten. People may be infected after close contact with a dog or cat, especially after contact with the animal’s saliva (spit).
Complications That Can Result From a Serious Dog Attack
Due to the bacteria present in a dog’s mouth, even a seemingly uncomplicated bite could lead to major health problems. The rabies virus or bacterial infections from Capnocytophaga can be transferred from dogs to humans through saliva – and in the case of Capnocytophaga, illness can even result from proximity to an infected dog.
A dog bite wound is a potentially life-threatening injury, with complications that may include:
If left untreated, the bacterial infection from a dog bite might spread to other areas of the body and lead to sepsis, which can become fatal. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), three out of 10 people die from a serious dog bite infection.
Key Symptoms to Watch Out for After a Dog Bite Injury
Dog bite injuries are typically treatable. However, some bites can lead to serious complications, depending on the dog’s health and other factors. There are a few telltale symptoms that can signal a serious dog bite, such as:
If you did not yet seek care, these symptoms are strong signals that you should go to an urgent care clinic or emergency room to treat your injury.
If you are concerned about seeking treatment after someone’s dog bit you, know that your treatment could be covered by their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. You will not need to deal directly with the dog’s owner to get compensation for your treatment, provided the dog’s owner is insured.
For a free legal consultation, call 412-661-1400
Doctor explains how to assess and treat dog bites
To know if a dog bite is serious, you must get examined by a medical professional. It is important to note that any dog bite can be serious, especially one that breaks the skin. You should seek medical care immediately, even if you only appear to have superficial wounds.
If you had to seek medical treatment for a dog bite and another party is found liable for your injury, you might be legally entitled to compensation for your injury.
