What should you do if a mouse bites and draws blood? - briefly
Clean the bite thoroughly with soap and water, apply pressure to stop bleeding, and disinfect with an antiseptic. Promptly seek medical evaluation for tetanus status and possible rabies prophylaxis.
What should you do if a mouse bites and draws blood? - in detail
If a rodent bite results in bleeding, act promptly to reduce infection risk and address possible complications.
First, apply direct pressure with a clean cloth or sterile gauze until bleeding stops. Keep pressure steady for several minutes; if bleeding persists, elevate the affected area above heart level to lessen blood flow.
Second, cleanse the wound thoroughly. Rinse under running water for at least one minute, then wash with mild soap. Avoid scrubbing aggressively, which can damage tissue. After cleaning, rinse again with clean water to remove any soap residue.
Third, disinfect the site. Use an antiseptic such as povidone‑iodine, chlorhexidine, or 70 % alcohol. Apply a thin layer, allowing it to dry before covering.
Fourth, protect the injury. Place a sterile, non‑adhesive dressing over the area and secure it with a bandage. Change the dressing daily or sooner if it becomes wet or contaminated.
Fifth, assess the need for professional medical care. Seek immediate attention if any of the following occur:
- Persistent or profuse bleeding despite pressure
- Deep puncture wounds or tissue loss
- Signs of infection: redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or increasing pain
- Fever, chills, or malaise
- Uncertain tetanus immunization status (booster recommended if last dose was over five years ago)
- Potential exposure to rabies (if the mouse is wild, appears sick, or was found dead)
A healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics, administer a tetanus booster, or order laboratory tests to rule out bacterial pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus species.
Sixth, monitor the bite site for at least two weeks. Record any changes in appearance, pain level, or systemic symptoms. Promptly report worsening conditions to a medical professional.
Seventh, address the source. Identify how the mouse entered the environment and implement control measures: seal entry points, eliminate food sources, and consider professional pest management to prevent future incidents.
Finally, document the event. Note the date, time, location, circumstances of the bite, and any actions taken. This record can be valuable for medical follow‑up and for reporting to public health authorities if required.