What should I do if a mouse or rat bites me? - briefly
Clean the bite with soap and water, apply an antiseptic, and cover it with a sterile dressing; then promptly see a healthcare professional for evaluation of infection risk and possible tetanus or rabies prophylaxis.
What should I do if a mouse or rat bites me? - in detail
If a rodent bite occurs, immediate action is essential to reduce infection risk and assess the need for medical care.
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Wash the wound – Rinse under running water for at least one minute. Apply mild soap around the area, then rinse thoroughly. Pat dry with a clean cloth or gauze.
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Apply pressure – If bleeding persists, use a sterile gauze pad and apply firm pressure until bleeding stops, typically within a few minutes.
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Disinfect – Cover the cleaned bite with an antiseptic solution such as povidone‑iodine or hydrogen peroxide. Allow it to dry before proceeding.
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Bandage – Place a sterile, non‑adhesive dressing over the bite. Secure with medical tape, ensuring the bandage is snug but not restrictive.
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Seek professional evaluation – Contact a healthcare provider promptly. Indications for urgent care include:
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Tetanus protection – Verify that tetanus immunization is up to date (within the past 10 years). If not, a booster may be required.
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Antibiotic considerations – A clinician may prescribe prophylactic antibiotics to cover common rodent‑associated bacteria such as Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Pasteurella, and Leptospira. Follow the prescribed regimen exactly.
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Monitor – Observe the site for worsening redness, increasing pain, or drainage. Report any changes to a medical professional without delay.
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Report – If the bite originated from a pet, inform the animal’s veterinarian. For wild rodents, notify local public‑health authorities to aid surveillance of zoonotic diseases.
By adhering to these steps, the likelihood of complications diminishes and appropriate treatment can be administered swiftly.