What happens if a rat bites a person?

Immediate Actions After a Rat Bite

First Aid Steps

Cleaning the Wound

When a rat punctures the skin, immediate wound care reduces infection risk and facilitates medical assessment.

First, stop any bleeding by applying gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze. If blood flow is excessive, maintain pressure for several minutes until it subsides.

Next, irrigate the site thoroughly. Use running clean water or a saline solution, directing a steady stream over the wound for at least one minute. This mechanical flushing removes saliva, debris, and foreign particles lodged in the tissue.

After cleaning, disinfect the area. Apply an antiseptic such as povidone‑iodine, chlorhexidine, or a 70 % alcohol solution, ensuring full coverage of the surrounding skin. Allow the agent to air‑dry before proceeding.

Finally, cover the wound with a sterile, non‑adhesive dressing. Secure it with a clean bandage that maintains gentle pressure without restricting circulation.

The following actions should be taken promptly after initial care:

Seek professional medical evaluation within 24 hours.
Verify tetanus immunization status; administer a booster if the last dose exceeds ten years or if the wound is deep.
Discuss rabies prophylaxis with a healthcare provider, especially if the rat’s vaccination history is unknown.
Initiate empiric antibiotic therapy as prescribed to counter common rat‑borne pathogens such as Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Leptospira species.

Observe the wound daily for signs of infection: increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pus formation, or fever. Report any deterioration to a medical professional without delay.

Applying Pressure

When a rat punctures skin, prompt control of bleeding reduces the risk of hemorrhage and limits bacterial entry. Direct pressure on the wound is the primary method to achieve hemostasis.

Place a clean gauze pad or cloth over the bite site.
Apply firm, steady pressure with the palm or fingers, compressing the tissue without causing additional trauma.
Maintain pressure for at least five minutes; if bleeding persists, add another layer of gauze and continue pressing.
Elevate the affected limb above heart level, if feasible, to decrease blood flow to the area.
Do not remove the dressing to check the wound before the pressure period ends; premature inspection may disrupt clot formation.

After achieving hemostasis, clean the surrounding skin with mild soap and water, then cover the area with a sterile bandage. Monitor for signs of infection—redness, swelling, warmth, or pus—and seek professional medical evaluation promptly, as rat bites can transmit pathogens such as Streptobacillus moniliformis or Leptospira spp. Timely medical intervention, including possible antibiotics and tetanus prophylaxis, complements the initial pressure technique and improves outcomes.

Seeking Medical Attention

When a rat punctures the skin, prompt professional evaluation is required. The wound may introduce bacteria, viruses, or parasites that can cause serious systemic illness. Immediate actions include:

Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding.
Rinse the bite thoroughly with running water and mild soap for at least one minute.
Avoid using harsh antiseptics that could damage tissue.

After basic first aid, seek medical care without delay. Clinical assessment will determine the need for:

Tetanus prophylaxis if immunization status is outdated.
Empiric antibiotics targeting Streptobacillus moniliformis and other common rodent‑associated pathogens.
Laboratory testing for rat‑bite fever, leptospirosis, hantavirus, or other infections based on exposure history.
Observation for signs of infection, such as increasing redness, swelling, fever, or lymph node enlargement.

Healthcare providers may prescribe a course of oral antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin‑clavulanate) and schedule a follow‑up visit to monitor healing. If the bite occurred in a region where rabies is present, post‑exposure prophylaxis must be considered, even though rats are rarely rabies vectors.

Documentation of the incident, including the rat’s environment and any known illnesses in the animal, assists clinicians in selecting appropriate diagnostics and treatment. Failure to obtain timely care can lead to complications that require hospitalization, prolonged antibiotic therapy, or surgical intervention.

In summary, a rat bite warrants immediate wound cleansing, urgent medical consultation, and adherence to prescribed treatment to minimize the risk of infection and other health threats.

Potential Health Risks

Bacterial Infections

Rat-Bite Fever

Rat‑bite fever is a bacterial infection transmitted primarily through bites or scratches from rodents, especially rats, and occasionally through exposure to contaminated urine or droppings. The disease is caused by Streptobacillus moniliformis in North America and Spirillum minus in Asia.

After an incubation period of 2 to 10 days, the infection produces a sudden onset of fever, chills, headache, and muscle aches. Common accompanying signs include:

Red‑pink maculopapular or petechial rash, often on the extremities
Joint pain or swelling, especially in the knees and ankles
Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort
Elevated heart rate and low blood pressure in severe cases

Complications may involve endocarditis, meningitis, or septicemia, which can be fatal without prompt treatment. Diagnosis relies on culturing the organism from blood or wound specimens, and serologic testing can confirm exposure.

First‑line therapy is a 10‑ to 14‑day course of penicillin G; doxycycline serves as an alternative for penicillin‑allergic patients. Early antimicrobial administration markedly reduces morbidity and mortality.

Prevention focuses on minimizing rodent contact and protecting against injuries:

Use gloves and protective clothing when handling rodents or cleaning cages
Implement rodent‑control measures in homes and workplaces
Seek immediate medical attention after any bite, scratch, or exposure to rodent excreta

Awareness of the clinical presentation and rapid initiation of appropriate antibiotics are essential for effective management of rat‑bite fever.

Tetanus

A rat bite can introduce Clostridium tetani spores into the wound. The anaerobic environment of a deep puncture allows the spores to germinate and produce tetanospasmin, a neurotoxin that interferes with inhibitory neurotransmission.

Typical manifestations appear 3–21 days after exposure and include:

Muscle rigidity beginning in the jaw (lockjaw)
Neck stiffness and difficulty swallowing
Generalized spasms triggered by minimal stimuli
Autonomic disturbances such as sweating and rapid heart rate

Immediate management consists of:

Thorough irrigation and debridement of the wound to reduce bacterial load.
Administration of tetanus‑toxoid vaccine if the patient’s immunization status is uncertain or the last dose was given more than 10 years ago.
Passive immunization with human tetanus immune globulin (TIG) for high‑risk or unvaccinated individuals.
Initiation of antibiotics effective against anaerobes, commonly metronidazole, to suppress bacterial growth.
Supportive care in an intensive setting for severe spasms, including muscle relaxants (e.g., benzodiazepines) and mechanical ventilation if airway compromise occurs.

Long‑term prognosis improves markedly when prophylaxis and early treatment are applied promptly. Failure to address tetanus risk after a rodent bite can lead to life‑threatening complications, underscoring the necessity of rapid clinical assessment and adherence to established immunization guidelines.

Leptospirosis

A rat bite can introduce a variety of pathogens; among them, the bacterium Leptospira causes leptospirosis, a zoonotic infection with potentially severe outcomes.

Leptospira species are spirochetes that inhabit the renal tubules of rodents. The organism is shed in urine and can contaminate water, soil, and, in the case of a bite, the wound site. After entry, the incubation period ranges from 2 to 14 days. Clinical presentation progresses through two phases:

Acute (septicemic) phase: fever, chills, myalgia, headache, and conjunctival suffusion.
Immune phase: jaundice, renal impairment, hemorrhagic manifestations, and, in some cases, meningitis.

A rat bite provides a direct inoculation route, bypassing the usual environmental exposure. This mode can lead to a higher bacterial load at the entry point, increasing the risk of systemic spread and severe organ involvement.

Diagnosis relies on laboratory confirmation:

Serological testing (microscopic agglutination test) to detect specific antibodies.
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for early detection of bacterial DNA.
Culture of blood or urine, though less frequently used due to slow growth.

Prompt antimicrobial therapy is essential. Doxycycline (100 mg orally twice daily) or penicillin G (1.5 million units intravenously every 6 hours) for 7–10 days reduces morbidity and prevents complications.

Prevention focuses on minimizing exposure and managing wounds:

Clean and disinfect bite wounds immediately with antiseptic solution.
Seek medical evaluation within 24 hours for possible prophylactic antibiotics.
Control rodent populations in residential and occupational settings.
Avoid contact with water or soil potentially contaminated by rodent urine.

Understanding the link between rat bites and leptospirosis enables timely intervention and reduces the likelihood of severe disease progression.

Viral Infections

Hantavirus (Rare but Possible)

A rat bite can introduce hantavirus, although transmission through saliva is uncommon. The virus is primarily carried by wild rodents, especially deer mice, but other species may harbor it. When a bite breaches the skin, viral particles present in the animal’s oral secretions may enter the bloodstream.

Incubation typically lasts 1‑3 weeks. Early signs include fever, muscle aches, and headache. Progression can lead to severe respiratory distress, low blood pressure, and kidney dysfunction. The condition known as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome has a mortality rate of 30‑40 % without prompt medical care.

Diagnosis relies on serologic testing or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from blood samples. Supportive treatment in an intensive‑care setting, including oxygen therapy and fluid management, improves outcomes. No specific antiviral drug is approved; experimental therapies are under investigation.

Prevention focuses on minimizing exposure to rodents and their excreta. If a bite occurs, immediate wound cleansing with soap and water, followed by medical evaluation, reduces risk. Reporting the incident to health authorities enables surveillance and appropriate public‑health response.

Rabies (Extremely Rare)

When a rat bites a human, the likelihood of rabies transmission is exceedingly low. Rodents, including rats, are not common reservoirs for the rabies virus; most documented cases involve carnivores such as bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes. Surveillance data show that rabies infection in rats is virtually nonexistent, with only isolated, unverified reports.

Rabies exposure risk from a rat bite depends on several factors:

The animal’s health status and vaccination history (if any).
Geographic region and local rabies prevalence among wildlife.
Confirmation that the rat was not in contact with a known rabid animal shortly before the bite.

If a rat bite occurs, the immediate medical response should include:

Thorough washing of the wound with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.
Application of an antiseptic solution.
Assessment by a healthcare professional to determine the need for tetanus prophylaxis and antibiotic coverage for bacterial infection.
Evaluation of rabies exposure risk based on local public health guidelines; most jurisdictions will not recommend post‑exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for a rat bite unless the rodent can be proven rabid.

Rabies, when it does develop, follows a predictable clinical course: an incubation period of weeks to months, followed by prodromal symptoms such as fever and malaise, progressing to neurologic signs including agitation, hydrophobia, and paralysis. Once clinical signs appear, the disease is almost universally fatal. Consequently, PEP—consisting of wound cleaning, rabies immunoglobulin, and a series of rabies vaccine injections—is administered promptly when exposure to a confirmed rabid animal is probable.

In summary, a rat bite rarely poses a rabies threat. Prompt wound care and professional medical evaluation remain essential to prevent bacterial infection and to address any potential, albeit minimal, rabies risk.

Other Complications

Allergic Reactions

A rat bite can introduce saliva proteins that act as allergens, triggering immune responses in susceptible individuals. Immediate hypersensitivity (type I) may develop within minutes, presenting as localized swelling, redness, and itching at the wound site. In severe cases, systemic reactions such as hives, throat constriction, hypotension, and loss of consciousness indicate anaphylaxis, a medical emergency requiring prompt administration of epinephrine.

Risk factors for allergic reactions include prior sensitization to rodent allergens, a personal history of atopy, and concurrent exposure to other animal dander. The likelihood of a severe response rises with repeated bites or prolonged contact with rat saliva.

Management steps:

Assess airway, breathing, and circulation immediately.
Administer intramuscular epinephrine (0.01 mg/kg, up to 0.5 mg) at the first sign of systemic involvement.
Provide antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine 10 mg) to alleviate cutaneous symptoms.
Offer corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone 40–60 mg) to reduce inflammation if needed.
Monitor vital signs for at least 4 hours; observe for biphasic reactions.

Prevention focuses on minimizing exposure: use protective gloves when handling rodents, maintain rodent‑free environments, and educate at‑risk persons about early signs of allergic response. If a bite occurs, thorough wound cleaning and timely medical evaluation reduce the chance of infection and allergic complications.

Scarring

A rat bite penetrates the skin, creating an irregular wound that can heal with a visible scar. The depth of the puncture, the location on the body, and the time elapsed before proper cleaning all influence the scar’s appearance.

Immediate decontamination with antiseptic solution reduces bacterial load and limits tissue damage.
Prompt medical evaluation determines the need for tetanus booster, rabies prophylaxis, and antibiotics, which together lower infection risk that often worsens scarring.
Suturing is rarely performed on rat bites because the tissue is fragile; instead, the wound is left to heal by secondary intention, which may produce a wider scar.

Factors that promote hypertrophic or keloid formation include:

Genetic predisposition, especially among individuals of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent.
Prolonged inflammation from untreated infection.
Repeated trauma to the same area.

Scar management strategies:

Silicone gel sheets or pressure dressings applied after epithelialization soften raised tissue.
Intralesional corticosteroid injections for hypertrophic scars.
Laser resurfacing or fractional photothermolysis to remodel collagen in mature scars.
Sun protection to prevent hyperpigmentation and scar darkening.

Monitoring the wound for signs of infection—redness expanding beyond the margin, increasing pain, purulent discharge, or fever—is essential. Early intervention prevents tissue necrosis, which can transform a minor puncture into a deep, contractile scar that impairs function.

Medical Treatment Options

Wound Care

Antibiotics

A rat bite introduces skin flora, oral bacteria, and possibly pathogens such as Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Leptospira. Immediate wound care reduces bacterial load, but systemic therapy is often required to prevent infection and complications.

Antibiotic therapy serves three purposes: prophylaxis against common bite‑related organisms, treatment of established infection, and coverage of zoonotic agents. Selection depends on the severity of the wound, patient allergies, and local resistance patterns.

First‑line prophylaxis: Amoxicillin‑clavulanate, 875 mg/125 mg twice daily for 5 days, covers both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria typical of rodent bites.
Alternative for penicillin‑allergic patients: Doxycycline 100 mg twice daily plus metronidazole 500 mg three times daily, each for 5 days.
Leptospirosis risk: Doxycycline 100 mg once daily for 7 days or a single dose of oral azithromycin 500 mg if exposure is confirmed.
Severe infection: Intravenous ceftriaxone 1–2 g daily or piperacillin‑tazobactam 3.375 g every 6 hours, adjusted per culture results.

Timely administration—ideally within 24 hours of the bite—significantly lowers the incidence of cellulitis, abscess formation, and systemic spread. Monitoring for adverse reactions, such as gastrointestinal upset or allergic response, remains essential throughout treatment.

In summary, appropriate antibiotic selection, prompt initiation, and adherence to the prescribed course constitute the critical medical response to a rat bite, mitigating the risk of serious infection and ensuring optimal recovery.

Antiseptics

When a rodent punctures skin, bacterial contamination is immediate. Prompt wound cleansing reduces the likelihood of infection and limits the spread of pathogens such as Streptobacillus moniliformis or Leptospira spp.

Effective antiseptic care follows a three‑step protocol:

Initial irrigation – flush the bite with sterile saline or clean running water for at least one minute to remove debris and dilute bacterial load.
Antiseptic application – apply a broad‑spectrum agent to the entire wound surface. Preferred options include:
- Alcohol‑based solutions (70 % isopropanol or ethanol) – rapid bactericidal action; avoid on large open wounds due to tissue irritation.
- Chlorhexidine gluconate (0.5 %–4 %) – persistent activity against Gram‑positive and Gram‑negative organisms; suitable for mucosal involvement.
- Povidone‑iodine (10 %‑10 %‑w/v) – effective against a wide range of microbes; rinse after 2–3 minutes to prevent iodine toxicity.
- Hydrogen peroxide (3 %) – useful for superficial cleaning; limit exposure to prevent oxidative damage to healthy tissue.
Secondary dressing – cover with a sterile, non‑adhesive bandage to maintain a moist environment and protect from external contaminants. Change dressing daily or sooner if it becomes wet or soiled.

If the bite is deep, bleeding profusely, or shows signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus, fever), seek medical evaluation. Professional care may include systemic antibiotics, tetanus prophylaxis, and laboratory testing for rat‑borne diseases. Continuous monitoring for delayed symptoms remains essential, as some infections manifest several days after exposure.

Vaccination

Tetanus Shot

A rat bite can introduce Clostridium tetani spores into the wound, creating a risk of tetanus infection. The bacteria produce a neurotoxin that interferes with nerve signaling, leading to muscle rigidity and spasms. Prompt assessment of tetanus risk is a standard component of bite management.

The tetanus vaccine, administered as a tetanus toxoid injection, provides active immunity by stimulating antibody production against the toxin. For individuals whose immunization status is uncertain or who have not received a booster within the past ten years, immediate administration of a tetanus toxoid-containing vaccine is recommended. If the last booster was given more than five years ago and the wound is dirty or deep, a tetanus immune globulin (TIG) injection should be added to neutralize any circulating toxin.

Key steps following a rat bite include:

Thorough irrigation and debridement of the wound to reduce bacterial load.
Evaluation of tetanus immunization history.
Administration of tetanus toxoid vaccine if indicated.
Consideration of TIG for high‑risk injuries or incomplete vaccination records.
Prescription of appropriate antibiotics to cover common rat‑associated pathogens.

Monitoring for signs of tetanus—such as jaw muscle stiffness, neck rigidity, or generalized muscle spasms—should continue for up to four weeks after the injury. Early detection and timely immunization substantially lower the likelihood of severe disease.

Rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis

When a rat bites a person, the immediate concern is the potential transmission of rabies, even though rats are uncommon carriers. Assess the bite for depth, location, and signs of infection, then begin thorough wound irrigation with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes. After cleaning, obtain professional medical evaluation without delay.

Post‑exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is indicated if the rat’s rabies vaccination status is unknown, the animal displays abnormal behavior, or the bite occurred in a region where rabies is endemic. The protocol consists of three components:

Wound management: Continue cleaning, apply antiseptic, and monitor for redness or swelling.
Rabies immunoglobulin (RIG): Administer a calculated dose (20 IU/kg) directly into and around the wound; any remaining volume is injected intramuscularly at a site distant from the vaccine.
Rabies vaccine series: Deliver intramuscular injections on days 0, 3, 7, and 14. A fifth dose on day 28 is recommended for immunocompromised patients.

The vaccine used is a modern, cell‑culture rabies vaccine, which provides rapid seroconversion and a favorable safety profile. Observe the injection site for pain or inflammation; systemic reactions are rare and typically mild.

Complete documentation of the exposure, administered RIG, and vaccine dates is essential for follow‑up. If the patient develops any adverse symptoms, report them to health authorities and consider alternative immunization strategies. Successful PEP prevents the onset of rabies, a disease that is almost invariably fatal once clinical signs appear.

Prevention of Rat Bites

Rodent Control in Homes

Sealing Entry Points

Rat bites can transmit diseases such as leptospirosis, hantavirus, and bacterial infections. Preventing contact begins with eliminating the pathways rats use to enter buildings. Sealing all potential entry points removes the opportunity for rodents to reach occupants and reduces the risk of bites.

Effective sealing requires a systematic approach:

Inspect exterior walls, foundations, and rooflines for gaps larger than ¼ inch. Common sources include cracks in masonry, gaps around utility penetrations, and openings around doors and windows.
Apply appropriate materials: steel wool or copper mesh for small holes, followed by a durable sealant such as silicone, polyurethane caulk, or expanding foam. For larger openings, install metal flashing or hardware cloth secured with screws.
Reinforce door thresholds and garage doors with weatherstripping or sweeps that close gaps when the door is shut.
Cover vents, ducts, and utility conduits with mesh screens sized no larger than ¼ inch. Secure screens with stainless‑steel staples.
Conduct regular maintenance checks after weather events or renovations to confirm that seals remain intact.

By removing every access route, the likelihood of a rat encountering a person inside the premises drops dramatically, thereby preventing bites and the associated health hazards.

Proper Food Storage

Proper food storage reduces the likelihood of rodent encounters that can lead to bites and subsequent infection. Food left uncovered or stored at ambient temperature attracts rats, increasing the chance they will approach humans and bite when threatened. Secure storage eliminates the attraction, thereby lowering the risk of direct contact and the transmission of pathogens such as Streptobacillus moniliformis.

Effective storage practices include:

Seal all containers with airtight lids; use metal or heavy‑plastic bins rather than cardboard.
Keep pantry shelves clean; wipe spills immediately and discard crumbs.
Store food at temperatures below 4 °C for perishables; freeze items that are not used within a week.
Rotate stock on a first‑in, first‑out basis; label each package with the purchase date.
Position storage units away from walls and floor vents; maintain a gap of at least 2 inches for inspection.

Regular inspection of storage areas identifies signs of rodent activity—droppings, gnaw marks, or urine stains—prompting swift remediation. By implementing these measures, the exposure to rat bites and the associated health complications are markedly reduced.

Trapping and Extermination

Rat bites transmit pathogens and cause tissue damage, making prompt population control essential for public health. Effective control relies on two complementary actions: live capture and lethal removal.

Snap traps: spring‑loaded devices that kill instantly; placement near walls, behind objects, and along rodent pathways maximizes success.
Electronic traps: deliver a high‑voltage shock; reusable and suitable for indoor environments.
Glue boards: immobilize rodents for later disposal; best used in concealed areas to prevent accidental contact with humans or pets.
Live‑catch cages: allow humane capture; require immediate release or euthanasia to prevent re‑infestation.

Extermination follows trapping when infestation levels exceed manageable thresholds or when disease risk is high. Common lethal methods include:

Rodenticides: anticoagulant baits (e.g., bromadiolone, difenacoum) disrupt blood clotting; secondary poisoning risk mandates careful placement.
Fumigants: gas formulations (e.g., sulfuryl fluoride) penetrate sealed structures; professional application ensures safety.
Insecticide‑treated dusts: silica‑based powders abrade rodent exoskeletons, causing dehydration; effective in cracks and voids.

Integrated pest management combines proper sanitation, exclusion of entry points, and regular monitoring to reduce reliance on chemicals. Immediate removal of trapped rodents and correct disposal of carcasses prevent secondary contamination. Continuous assessment of trap performance and bait consumption ensures that control measures remain effective and that the likelihood of human bites diminishes.

Personal Safety Measures

Avoiding Contact with Wild Rats

Wild rats carry pathogens that can enter the human body through a bite, leading to infections such as leptospirosis, hantavirus, or rat‑bite fever. Preventing any encounter with these animals eliminates the primary route of transmission.

Effective avoidance measures include:

Securing food sources: store pantry items in sealed containers, clean up spills immediately, and avoid leaving pet food outdoors.
Managing waste: use tightly fitting trash cans, dispose of garbage regularly, and keep compost piles covered.
Sealing entry points: install metal or concrete screens on vents, repair gaps around doors, windows, and utility lines, and use steel wool to block small openings.
Reducing shelter: eliminate clutter, trim vegetation away from building foundations, and clear debris that could serve as nesting sites.
Using protective gear: wear thick gloves and long sleeves when handling materials in areas known for rodent activity.
Employing traps responsibly: place snap traps or electronic devices in concealed locations, monitor them frequently, and dispose of captured rats according to local regulations.

Awareness of rat behavior enhances safety. Rats are nocturnal, avoid bright light, and follow established pathways marked by scent. Limiting night‑time disturbances and avoiding known runways reduces the likelihood of accidental contact.

By maintaining a clean environment, reinforcing structural barriers, and applying controlled removal techniques, individuals can substantially lower the risk of being bitten by a wild rat.

Wearing Protective Gear in Infested Areas

Protective equipment is essential when working in environments where rats are known to reside. Direct contact with rodents increases the likelihood of bites that can transmit pathogens such as Leptospira or hantavirus. Proper attire creates a physical barrier, reducing exposure to saliva, blood, and contaminated surfaces.

Wearing the following items provides comprehensive protection:

Heavy‑duty nitrile or cut‑resistant gloves that cover the wrists.
Long‑sleeved, tightly woven shirts and trousers made of durable fabric.
Steel‑toe or puncture‑resistant boots with ankle support.
Full‑face respirator or mask equipped with a filter rated for biological agents.
Safety goggles or face shield to guard against splashes.

Additional measures reinforce safety:

Inspect clothing for tears before entering the area.
Replace damaged gear immediately.
Remove and discard outer garments before leaving the site, then launder or disinfect according to institutional protocols.
Perform hand hygiene with antimicrobial soap after glove removal.

If a bite occurs despite precautions, the following steps are mandatory:

Apply pressure with a sterile dressing to control bleeding.
Irrigate the wound with copious water and mild antiseptic.
Seek medical evaluation promptly for wound assessment and prophylactic treatment.
Report the incident to occupational health services for documentation and follow‑up.

Consistent use of protective gear, combined with immediate response procedures, minimizes the health risks associated with rat bites in infested locations.