Overview
Bites from animals or humans can cause puncture wounds, lacerations, or infections. Severity varies depending on the type of bite, location, and the health of the biter.
Causes
Dog, cat, or other animal bites Human bites during fights or accidents Insect or spider bites that break the skin
Symptoms
Pain, redness, and swelling at the bite site Bleeding or puncture wounds Bruising or skin tearing Signs of infection: pus, warmth, fever
Diagnosis
Physical examination by a healthcare provider Review of tetanus vaccination status Assessment for possible infections like rabies or cellulitis
Treatment
Immediate cleaning of the wound with soap and water Application of antiseptic and bandaging Antibiotics if infection is present or likely Tetanus booster if needed Rabies vaccination for animal bites from unknown or unvaccinated animals Surgical care for deep or severe wounds
Prevention & Care
Avoid provoking animals Ensure pets are vaccinated and healthy Use protective gear when in high-risk environments Seek medical attention promptly after any bite