What should be done if a mouse bites me? - briefly
Clean the wound with soap and water, apply an antiseptic, and cover it with a sterile bandage. Seek medical evaluation promptly for potential rabies exposure and tetanus prophylaxis.
What should be done if a mouse bites me? - in detail
If a rodent bite occurs, immediate and systematic care reduces the risk of infection and complications.
First, wash the wound thoroughly with running water and mild soap for at least one minute. Apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze pad to stop bleeding. After cleansing, disinfect the area using an antiseptic such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine.
Next, assess the need for professional medical attention. Contact a healthcare provider if any of the following conditions are present:
- Deep puncture or laceration exceeding 0.5 cm
- Persistent bleeding after pressure is applied
- Signs of infection (redness, swelling, warmth, pus)
- Fever, chills, or malaise developing within 24 hours
- Uncertain tetanus vaccination status (last booster more than 10 years ago)
A clinician may prescribe oral antibiotics—commonly amoxicillin‑clavulanate—to cover typical rodent oral flora, including Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Pasteurella species. Tetanus prophylaxis should be administered according to current immunization guidelines.
Rabies risk is low for common house mice but not negligible for wild or exotic species. Verify local public‑health recommendations; post‑exposure rabies vaccination may be required if the animal’s status is unknown or if it exhibited abnormal behavior.
Observe the wound for at least 48 hours. Document any changes in size, discharge, or pain level. If aggravation occurs, seek further medical evaluation promptly.
Prevent future incidents by securing food sources, sealing entry points, and maintaining a clean environment to discourage rodent activity. Use traps or professional pest‑control services when infestations are identified.