What should you do if bitten by a wild mouse? - briefly
Immediately cleanse the bite with soap and water, then apply a sterile bandage. Seek medical evaluation promptly for tetanus immunization and possible rabies prophylaxis.
What should you do if bitten by a wild mouse? - in detail
If a feral rodent bite occurs, immediate wound management is essential. Rinse the site thoroughly with running water for several minutes, using mild soap if available. Apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze to control bleeding. After cleaning, cover the wound with a sterile dressing.
Seek professional medical assessment promptly. A clinician will evaluate the need for tetanus booster, considering the last immunization date. If the bite is deep, puncture‑type, or contaminated with saliva, prophylactic antibiotics such as amoxicillin‑clavulanate are commonly prescribed to prevent bacterial infection.
Assess risk of zoonotic diseases. Wild rodents may transmit hantavirus, leptospirosis, and, rarely, rabies. Inform the healthcare provider about the animal’s environment and behavior. In regions where rabies is endemic, post‑exposure prophylaxis may be indicated, even if the animal is not captured for testing.
Monitor the injury for signs of infection: increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pus formation, or fever. Report any such symptoms to a medical professional without delay. Document the incident, including date, location, and circumstances, to assist public‑health authorities in tracking potential outbreaks.
Follow all prescribed treatment regimens. Complete the full course of antibiotics, attend follow‑up appointments, and adhere to tetanus booster recommendations. Maintain wound hygiene by changing dressings daily and keeping the area dry.
If possible, capture or photograph the rodent for identification, but avoid direct contact. Provide this information to health officials to facilitate appropriate public‑health response.