Northern Vietnam hospital reports sharp rise in dog bite injuries

The most recent dog bite case involved a 37-year-old resident from Hoang Dong Commune in Lang Son City, who suffered serious leg injuries after being attacked.

Doctors at the hospital’s trauma and burn department reported that the wounds were deep and ragged, with damaged muscles and tendons.

The patient was given tetanus shots and rabies serum and is still under treatment.

According to hospital staff, many dog bite victims were attacked by unleashed and unmuzzled dogs, and multiple wounds on the body were common.

Children and the elderly were particularly vulnerable, with injuries often affecting the head, face, and neck, potentially leading to lasting complications.

The hot summer weather, which makes pets more irritable, combined with school holidays when children are outdoors more often, has contributed to the recent spike in attacks, doctors noted.

Health experts are urging the public to take greater responsibility for pet care.

Dogs and cats should not be allowed to roam freely, must be muzzled in public, and should receive regular rabies vaccinations.

In the event of an animal bite, prompt medical treatment is essential.

Doctors warn against home remedies or traditional methods, which may delay proper care.