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If you were bitten by a dog, you should not take getting a tetanus shot lightly. Tetanus is a dangerous nerve disorder caused by toxins found in common bacteria and can be contracted from exposure to soil, dust, animal saliva, and excrement. If you get infected, the tetanus can enter your wound and produce toxins that are spread through your bloodstream. Tetanus is one of the most potent microbial poisons, and if untreated, can cause a person’s death.
Getting a Tetanus Shot Quickly Is Important
If you are an adult and have not been given a tetanus shot in the last 10 years, you need to get one if you were bitten by a dog. Children are given four shots and a booster between 18 months and 6 years and a booster at age 12. Some important points about prompt treatment include:
- It is best to be evaluated within eight hours of your dog bite if possible to reduce the chance of infection.
- If you need a booster shot, it should be given within 72 hours of your dog bite.
Symptoms of a tetanus infection can develop in one day or take up to three weeks to become apparent. Signs to watch for include:
- Swelling and pain at the site of the wound
- Headaches
- Fever
- Pus-like discharges
- Severe muscle spasms
- Stiffness in the jaw and the neck muscles
- Feeling irritable
- Difficulty swallowing
If you or a family member were bit by a dog, you may be able to hold the dog owner liable for compensating you under Florida’s dog bite law. Call our experienced legal team at (727) 345-4566 to schedule a free consultation to learn about your legal options.
