What should be done if a mouse bites? - briefly
Clean the bite with soap and water, apply an antiseptic, and obtain prompt medical evaluation for infection risk and possible tetanus or rabies prophylaxis.
What should be done if a mouse bites? - in detail
If a mouse bite occurs, act promptly to reduce infection risk and assess the need for professional care.
First, apply pressure with a clean cloth or bandage to stop any bleeding. Once bleeding is controlled, rinse the wound thoroughly under running water for at least one minute. Use mild soap around the area, but avoid scrubbing the wound itself. After cleaning, pat the site dry with a sterile gauze pad.
Next, apply an antiseptic solution such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine. Follow with a thin layer of an over‑the‑counter antibiotic ointment and cover with a sterile dressing. Change the dressing daily, monitoring for redness, swelling, increased pain, or pus.
Seek medical evaluation without delay if any of the following conditions are present:
- Deep puncture or large laceration.
- Signs of infection (erythema, warmth, discharge, fever).
- Unknown or incomplete tetanus immunization history.
- Exposure to a wild or unfamiliar mouse, which may carry rabies or other zoonotic pathogens.
- Underlying health issues that compromise immunity (diabetes, HIV, chemotherapy).
A healthcare professional may prescribe oral antibiotics, administer a tetanus booster, or order laboratory tests to identify bacterial contamination. In rare cases, rabies post‑exposure prophylaxis is required if the animal cannot be captured and tested.
Document the incident, noting the date, time, location, and description of the mouse. Preserve any captured specimen for identification if advised by health authorities.
Prevent future bites by securing food sources, sealing entry points, and using traps or humane deterrents. Regularly inspect homes for signs of rodent activity and maintain cleanliness to discourage infestations.