Answer:
Perilla, mugwort, green tea, betel, fish mint, and various herbal remedies have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, often used to reduce inflammation in infected skin. However, these methods are ineffective in preventing rabies because they do not eliminate the virus causing the disease.
Moreover, even when washed, these leaves can still carry bacteria and mold, increasing the risk of infection when applied to open wounds. Additionally, they can mask symptoms, hindering proper medical examination and treatment. Some leaves also contain allergens that can cause wound swelling and worsen the condition.
Rabies has a high fatality rate with no specific treatment, resulting in almost 100% mortality after onset. The rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin are the only preventative measures.
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Proper first aid is crucial for wounds caused by dog and cat bites or scratches. Illustration: Vecteezy |
Proper first aid is crucial for wounds caused by dog and cat bites or scratches. Illustration: Vecteezy
Therefore, proper wound care and vaccination are crucial as soon as possible after a dog or cat bite or scratch. The steps include: rinsing the wound under running water for 15 minutes; disinfecting it with 45-70% alcohol or iodine tincture to minimize the rabies virus at the bite site; and finally, visiting a medical facility for vaccination.
Vietnam has two types of rabies vaccines: Verorab (France) and Abhayrab (India). The vaccination schedule consists of five doses on days 0, 3, 7, 14, and 28.
Individuals who have not been bitten or scratched but are at high risk of rabies exposure should also get vaccinated as a precaution. This involves three doses on days 0, 7, and 21 or 28. Those who have completed the pre-exposure prophylaxis or received the full dosage for a previous bite only need two booster doses and do not require immunoglobulin, even with severe wounds from a bite or scratch.
Doctor Huynh Tran An Khuong
Medical Manager, VNVC Vaccination System
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