Home / Health / Dog Lick's Deadly Secret: Sepsis Warning
Dog Lick's Deadly Secret: Sepsis Warning
26 Feb
Summary
- Dog saliva can harbor bacteria causing fatal human infections.
- Regular pet screenings prevent silent, deadly diseases like leptospirosis.
- India's 'One Health' approach links pet and public well-being.
The health of pets significantly influences human safety, with bacteria like capnocytophaga canimorsus found in dog saliva posing fatal risks to humans through open wounds. Without regular screening and vaccination, pets are vulnerable to deadly infections like leptospirosis, a silent killer prevalent in India. These swift, invisible predators can be prevented with timely "7-in-1" vaccinations.
Older pets, like Labradors with epilepsy, face increased risks from secondary infections due to compromised immune systems. Similarly, early-life conditions, such as being kept in damp environments, can lead to lifelong fungal infections, creating entry points for bacteria. This highlights the importance of hygiene and a sterile environment for pets.
India's proximity to pets necessitates a focus on the "One Health" approach championed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Research indicates that a majority of emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic, thriving in India's climate. Therefore, pet vaccination records are considered public health documents, crucial for preventing the spread of diseases to humans.
