CHONBURI, THAILAND – Former boxing world champion Amnat Ruenroeng was hospitalized in Si Racha after a dog bite led to high fever and seizures, with rescuers warning his condition could have become life-threatening without fast treatment.
Emergency call in Si Racha
Around 9 p.m., the Sawang Prateep rescue unit received a report of a man suffering severe convulsions and high fever at a house in Moo 8 in Surasak subdistrict.
At the scene, responders found the former IBF flyweight champion, who was shivering with chills and high fever and had a visible wound on his knee.
Dog bite initially kept secret
According to rescue workers, Ruenroeng told them he had been bitten by a dog two days earlier but had not informed his family because he did not want to alarm them.
Instead of seeking medical attention, the ex-champion had stayed at home to rest until his chills and fever worsened significantly.
Seizure forces family to act
On Thursday evening, the former titleholder suffered a seizure, prompting his relatives to immediately call the emergency services.
Rescue personnel provided first aid inside the house before transporting him to a hospital for further examination and treatment.
Urgent treatment in hospital
Ruenroeng was taken to Somdet Phra Boromrachathewi Hospital in Si Racha, where, according to officials, he required urgent medical care.
Authorities stated that the combination of the dog bite and the high fever could have become life-threatening without professional treatment.
More dangerous than many think?
A dog bite followed by seizures and high fever just two days later raised broader questions about public awareness of the risks posed by animal attacks.
The report emphasized that every hour mattered, especially in cases involving infection or potential rabies, and asked readers whether the dangers of dog bites were being taken too lightly in Thailand.