Being bitten by an animal in Illinois can be painful, but often the worst consequences come later. Animal bite infections can result in a serious or even deadly condition. We at The Law Offices of Kerley and Associates work to protect clients from the physical, emotional and financial damages that this type of injury can cause.
Healthline.com reports that it is important to be able to recognize the symptoms of an animal bite infection. Victims will often report increased fatigue, tenderness around the bite or difficulty breathing. If you or your loved one were bitten, you may also notice red streaks around the bite, swelling or pus oozing from the wound. People who have developed an infection will also often develop a fever and night sweats. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
Understanding how the infection develops can be key to preventing it from happening to you. When an animal bites you, multiple species of bacteria from the mouth or the surrounding environment are often deposited into your body. This can include tetanus, which is one of the most common results of puncture wounds. If you develop tetanus, it can affect your nervous system and lead to other serious conditions.
You can reduce your risk of infection by thoroughly washing the bite immediately after it happens. This is especially important if you have a weakened immune system. To learn more about animal bites and the dangers they present, please visit our web page on the topic.