NEW DELHI: A 53-year-old woman tragically passed away after being bitten by her friend's pet dog. Tracy, an Australian woman sustained the bite while playing with a German Shepherd dog. About a week after the incident, Tracy was admitted to the hospital due to severe and excruciating pain.
Tracy's daughter, Sophie informed the media that they initially didn't pay significant attention to the dog bite and the wound was bandaged. Sophie also mentioned that Tracy had been taking painkillers to alleviate the intense pain.
The bacterium Capnocytophaga canimorsus had extensively spread in Tracy's kidneys, liver and bloodstream. Capnocytophaga is a deadly bacteria commonly found in the oral cavities of dogs and cats. This bacteria can be transmitted to humans through extended contact with pets or any form of scratching.
Tracy, who was undergoing treatment, fell into a coma for approximately eleven days. Subsequently, doctors reported her passing. Capnocytophaga infection is particularly concerning for individuals with compromised immunity, including heavy drinkers, HIV-positive individuals, cancer patients and others who are more susceptible to contracting Capnocytophaga infections.