Exploring the Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, and Treatment Approaches for Dog Bites in India

Abstract

Dog-bite incidences are mostly found in the South-East Asia region. The mortality rate due to dog bites is higher in India. The dog bite rate was 25.7/per 1000 populations per year, and 50% of the bites were in summer. >70% of the injuries to children involve the head, neck, and face. There are two forms of disease i.e. Furious (encephalitis) (80%) & and Paralytic rabies (20%). The incubation period of Rabies Lyssavirus is usually 20-90 days, it binds to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. Spreads centripetally via peripheral nerve to the spinal cord or brainstem via retrograde rapid axonal transport. Clinical features of neurotoxic & and vasculotoxic bites can help to identify the dog bite which plays the most important role in the management of victims. It is imperative to disseminate the information amongst the Indian population regard to precautions and treatment options available after dog bite.