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Cougar attacks on children: injury patterns and treatment
K M Kadesky1, C Manarey, G K Blair
1Department of Surgery, British Columbia's Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
Journal of Pediatric Surgery
|July 11, 1998
Summary
Cougar attacks on children are increasing, with a 25% fatality rate. Most attacks occurred with adult supervision, highlighting the need for aggressive medical evaluation and rabies prophylaxis after cougar encounters.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Public Health
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Cougar attacks on humans are a growing concern.
- A comprehensive review of attacks on children was conducted to understand attack patterns and injury types.
- This research aims to inform treatment protocols and preventative strategies for cougar attacks.
Observation:
- Fifty documented cougar attacks on children revealed a 25% fatality rate.
- The majority of child victims (92%) were not alone during the attack, often with adult supervision present.
- Common injuries included severe head and neck lacerations and puncture wounds, with notable cervical injuries like vertebral artery and carotid artery damage.
Findings:
- Two cases involved rabid cougars, and two patients developed late Pasteurella infections.
- Oropharyngeal flora, including Pasteurella multocida, were implicated in infections.
- Cervical spine and major vascular injuries were observed, underscoring the severity of cougar attacks.
Implications:
- Aggressive evaluation for occult cervical injuries and surgical debridement are recommended.
- Antibiotic coverage should include oropharyngeal flora, and rabies prophylaxis is indicated.
- The findings suggest that adult supervision in wilderness areas may not be a fully protective measure against cougar attacks.