DEAR Editor;
I had a scary incident recently where my daughter (6) was bitten by an unvaccinated cat.
What many people do not know is that if you are scratched or bitten by an unvaccinated animal, you can run the risk of contracting the rabies virus.
ALSO READ : ICYMI: Rabies kills, vaccinate your pet – it’s free
One only has a very short time (24 hours or so) in which to get treatment after being bitten to avoid contracting the virus.
While infection is uncommon from a cat bite, I did not want to take the chance.
Off I rushed to Port Shepstone Regional Hospital as I was advised that the private hospitals do not carry this vaccine.
I later found out that this wasn’t entirely true but the process through private hospitals is rather expensive.
The idea of queuing at a public facility during the pandemic did not appeal, but I decided I would rather face Covid-19 than rabies.
Imagine my surprise when it was nothing like I expected, in a surprisingly positive way.
From the security guard to the nurse screening applicants, to the nurse handling admin and the doctor administering the shot, they were all friendly and incredibly helpful during a stressful time.
I was fortunate to be the first person there – at 7.30am!
The nurses and staff were so kind and gentle with my daughter.
I was then referred to Port Shepstone Clinic for the three follow up injections.
Again, I braced myself for the worst, and again I was pleasantly surprised.
I was in and out within three hours and although the queues were seriously long, we were treated with such kindness and consideration.
On my final visit I witnessed the staff opening the session in prayer and singing. My conscience was pricked.
I realised I could learn a lesson or two about how to handle the seemingly endless number of people I have to deal with on a daily basis.
I must express my heartfelt gratitude and respect for the staff who treat sick people day after day and yet somehow still remain kind and caring.
GRATEFUL
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