What disease could I get if scratched by a cat? - briefly
If you are scratched by a cat, you may be at risk of developing cat-scratch disease (CSD), which is caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae. Symptoms typically include swollen lymph nodes and fever, although in some cases, it can lead to more serious complications if not treated promptly.
What disease could I get if scratched by a cat? - in detail
If you are scratched by a cat, several diseases and infections can potentially be transmitted, although the risk is generally low for most people. Here's a detailed overview of what you need to know:
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Cat Scratch Disease (CSD): This is one of the most common bacterial infections associated with cat scratches. Caused by Bartonella henselae, it can result in fever, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. While CSD is usually self-limiting and resolves within a few months, it can be serious for individuals with weakened immune systems.
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Pasteurellosis: This infection is caused by the bacterium Pasteurella multocida, which is commonly found in the mouths of cats. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, redness, and warmth around the scratch site, as well as fever and fatigue. Prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent complications such as joint infections or sepsis.
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Tetanus: While rare, there's a small risk of tetanus infection if the cat's claws introduce dirt or other foreign matter into the wound. Tetanus can cause muscle spasms and stiffness, difficulty swallowing, and in severe cases, respiratory failure. Ensuring your tetanus vaccination is up to date reduces this risk significantly.
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Rabies: The risk of contracting rabies from a cat scratch is extremely low, but it's not negligible. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, so prompt medical intervention is essential if there's any suspicion of exposure. Symptoms include fever, headache, and weakness, followed by hallucinations, paralysis, and hydrophobia.
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Toxoplasmosis: Although more commonly associated with cat feces, toxoplasmosis can potentially be transmitted through a scratch if the cat has recently defecated and the person has not washed their hands thoroughly. This infection is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, as it can cause birth defects.
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Secondary Infections: Open wounds from cat scratches can become infected with various bacteria, leading to conditions like cellulitis or abscesses. These infections require prompt medical treatment to prevent further complications.
To minimize the risk of infection after a cat scratch:
- Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water.
- Apply an antiseptic cream.
- Cover the wound with a sterile bandage or dressing.
- Monitor for any signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, swelling, or fever.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or do not improve within a few days.