A simple act of washing a dog bite wound with water and soap for 15 minutes can significantly reduce the risk of contracting the fatal rabies virus, according to veterinary surgeon and senior research fellow Dr. Pauline Njoroge.

• Dr. Pauline Njoroge revealed this crucial first-aid tip on NTV on Thursday, October 2, stressing that the virus does not spread immediately, giving victims a window to act.
• Unlike a snake bite, the rabies virus remains in the saliva for a few hours, allowing the soap and water to neutralize its spread before medical treatment is sought.
• Despite available vaccines, rabies causes approximately 2,000 Kenyan deaths annually and 59,000 worldwide, highlighting the importance of immediate first aid and vaccination programs for both humans and animals.