Animal and human bites

First Aid:  If you have been bitten by an animal, or have suffered a human bite, it is important the wound is cleaned thoroughly with large volumes of clean drinkable water or antiseptic.  All human and animal bites can easily become infected.

Treatment:

·         All minor bites and scratches will be cleaned thoroughly with potable (drinkable) water or sterile salt water

·         A deep wound will not be stitched due to the risk of infection

·         Paper stitches (steristrips) may be applied to the wound to help the skin close

·         An antiseptic dressing will be usually be applied to the wound

If your injury affects your arm you may be required to wear a high sling to help prevent swelling.

Bites to the face may need suturing immediately or in a few days after infection settles.

Human bites:

• You may be required to have a blood sample taken
• You may be given an anti-tetanus or hepatitis B vaccine depending on your immunity status.
• A full course of antibiotics will be prescribed for all bites, human and animal.

Go to your nearest emergency department or walk in centre at once if:

• Increasing redness or swelling develops around or leading from the bite
• The area becomes more painful
• You develop a raised temperature or feverishness