On 9/9, the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases reported a 4-year-old boy was admitted in critical condition. His left foot was severely swollen and necrotic, accompanied by respiratory distress and severe blood clotting disorders.

The boy had accidentally stepped on his cat's tail, prompting the animal to bite his left foot. Instead of seeking proper first aid, the family applied an unidentified traditional herbal remedy to the wounds. Two days later, the boy developed a high fever, severe swelling, and black necrotic patches on his foot, requiring emergency hospitalization.

Doctors diagnosed the boy with sepsis, necrotizing fasciitis, liver failure, and severe kidney failure due to infection. The medical team administered high-dose antibiotics, tetanus and rabies vaccines, and performed surgical debridement of the necrotic tissue. After the infection was controlled, the boy's condition gradually stabilized.

Doctor Bui Dinh Dung from the pediatric department warned this case highlights the dangers of using traditional remedies on open wounds. This practice can cause infections, leading to dangerous complications such as sepsis, multiple organ failure, and even death.

Medical experts recommend that if bitten by an animal or sustaining an open wound, individuals should clean the area thoroughly and immediately seek medical attention for proper treatment. They advise against applying leaves or traditional folk remedies to the wound.

Thuy Quynh