What should you do if bitten by a rat or mouse? - briefly
Wash the bite thoroughly with soap and running water, apply pressure to stop any bleeding, and cover it with a sterile dressing; then promptly seek medical evaluation for wound care, tetanus status, and possible rabies prophylaxis.
What should you do if bitten by a rat or mouse? - in detail
If a rodent bite occurs, immediate care is essential to prevent infection and complications.
First, cleanse the wound thoroughly. Rinse the area under running water for at least one minute. Apply mild soap, then rinse again. Pat the skin dry with a clean cloth or gauze.
Second, apply an antiseptic. Use a solution such as povidone‑iodine or hydrogen peroxide, allowing it to cover the entire wound surface.
Third, control bleeding. If the bite is bleeding, press a sterile gauze pad firmly for several minutes until the flow stops.
Fourth, protect the site. Cover the cleaned wound with a sterile, non‑adhesive dressing. Change the dressing daily or whenever it becomes wet or contaminated.
Fifth, seek professional medical evaluation promptly. Contact a healthcare provider or go to an urgent‑care clinic to assess the need for:
- Tetanus booster, if immunization is outdated or uncertain.
- Antibiotic therapy, especially for deep puncture wounds, signs of infection, or high‑risk exposures.
- Rabies risk assessment, based on local wildlife prevalence and the animal’s condition.
While awaiting medical attention, monitor the bite for signs of infection: increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pus, fever, or escalating pain. Report any of these symptoms immediately.
Document the incident. Record the date, time, location, and circumstances of the bite, as well as the animal’s appearance and behavior. This information assists healthcare professionals in determining appropriate treatment and reporting requirements.
Finally, implement preventive measures to reduce future incidents: seal entry points in homes, store food in sealed containers, maintain clean environments, and avoid handling wild rodents without protective gloves.