Wed May 07 16:12:12 UTC 2025: ## Coimbatore Hospitals Overwhelmed by Surge in Dog Bite Cases
**COIMBATORE, INDIA (May 7, 2025)** – Coimbatore is facing a significant increase in dog bite incidents, prompting health officials to urge residents to take preventative measures. The Coimbatore Medical College Hospital (CMCH), the region’s largest government hospital, reports treating approximately 60 dog bite cases daily. Private hospitals are also seeing a substantial number of patients.
Doctors emphasize that all bites, even minor scratches or those from pet dogs, should not be ignored. Immediate first aid involves thoroughly washing the wound with soap and running water, avoiding home remedies like turmeric. Proper medical attention is crucial.
Dog bites are categorized into three levels of severity based on wound type and exposure. Category I involves licks on intact skin, Category II includes minor scratches and abrasions, and Category III encompasses bites that break the skin, cause bleeding, or involve mucous membrane contamination.
Health officials express concern that some individuals, especially those bitten by pet dogs, delay seeking medical attention. They highlight instances of rabies infection stemming from seemingly minor pet dog bites. They strongly advise seeking medical evaluation for all bites, regardless of the dog’s vaccination status. Pet owners are encouraged to vaccinate their dogs and consider personal vaccination as well. Professionals handling or capturing dogs should also be vaccinated.
First Piper 