Where should you go if bitten by a rat? - briefly
Go to an emergency department or urgent‑care clinic immediately. Contact your local poison‑control center for prompt guidance.
Where should you go if bitten by a rat? - in detail
A rat bite requires prompt medical attention. First, apply pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding and wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least one minute. After initial care, seek professional evaluation without delay.
The appropriate destinations are:
- Emergency department (ED) of a hospital, if bleeding is severe, the bite is deep, or signs of infection appear quickly.
- Urgent‑care clinic, for moderate wounds when immediate hospital resources are not needed but a physician’s assessment is essential.
- Primary‑care physician, if the bite occurred more than a few hours ago, the wound is small, and there are no systemic symptoms.
- Local public‑health or infectious‑disease office, to obtain guidance on rabies risk, tetanus status, and potential need for prophylactic antibiotics.
During the medical visit, request the following:
- Assessment of wound depth and tissue damage.
- Evaluation for rabies exposure based on the rodent’s location and behavior; if risk exists, initiate rabies post‑exposure prophylaxis.
- Confirmation of tetanus immunization; administer a booster if the last dose was over ten years ago or if the wound is contaminated.
- Prescription of appropriate antibiotics to prevent bacterial infection, commonly targeting Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species.
- Documentation of the incident for possible occupational health reporting.
If any symptoms develop—fever, increasing redness, swelling, pus, or joint pain—return to an ED immediately. Follow all prescribed medication schedules and keep the wound clean and covered until it heals.