What should I do if a mouse bites me at home? - briefly
Clean the wound promptly with soap and water, apply an antiseptic, and cover it with a sterile dressing. Contact a medical professional to evaluate infection risk and determine whether tetanus prophylaxis or further treatment is needed.
What should I do if a mouse bites me at home? - in detail
When a mouse bites you inside your residence, act quickly to minimize infection and assess the need for professional care.
First, stop any bleeding. Apply firm pressure with a clean cloth or gauze until the flow subsides. If the wound continues to bleed after several minutes, seek emergency medical attention.
Next, clean the puncture thoroughly. Rinse with running water for at least 30 seconds. Use mild soap around the area, avoiding direct contact with the wound itself. Rinse again, then pat dry with a sterile pad.
After cleaning, disinfect. Apply an over‑the‑counter antiseptic such as hydrogen peroxide, povidone‑iodine, or chlorhexidine. Cover with a sterile bandage to protect against further contamination.
Assess the need for medical evaluation. Contact a healthcare provider if any of the following apply:
- The bite penetrates deeply or the skin is torn.
- Signs of infection appear (redness, swelling, warmth, pus, increasing pain).
- You have not received a tetanus booster within the past five years.
- You have underlying conditions that weaken immunity (diabetes, HIV, chemotherapy).
- The mouse was wild, visibly ill, or you suspect rabies exposure.
A clinician may prescribe antibiotics, administer a tetanus booster, or order laboratory tests. Do not delay treatment if symptoms worsen.
Report the incident to local public‑health authorities if rabies is a concern in your area. Provide details about the mouse’s behavior and any visible injuries.
Finally, implement preventive measures to avoid future bites:
- Seal cracks, gaps, and openings in walls, floors, and foundations.
- Store food in airtight containers; clean crumbs and spills promptly.
- Remove clutter that offers shelter for rodents.
- Set up humane traps or contact licensed pest‑control services for eradication.
- Keep pets up‑to‑date on vaccinations and discourage them from interacting with wild rodents.
Monitoring the wound for changes over the next 48‑72 hours is essential. If new symptoms develop, return to a medical professional without hesitation.