A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
Click a letter to see a list of conditions beginning with that letter.
Click 'Topic Index' to return to the index for the current topic.
Click 'Library Index' to return to the listing of all topics.
Treatment for Human Bites
Human bites can easily become infected because of the great number of bacteria in the human mouth. Hands are the most common site for bites. A healthcare provider should check any human bite that breaks the skin.
What is the treatment for human bites?
Your healthcare provider will talk with you about specific treatment for a human bite. Treatment may include:
-
If the bite is bleeding, apply pressure to it with a clean bandage, cloth, or towel to stop the bleeding.
-
Wash the wound with soap and water under pressure from a faucet for at least 5 minutes. Don't scrub, as this may bruise the tissue.
-
Dry the wound and cover it with a sterile dressing. Don't use tape or butterfly bandages to close the wound. This could trap harmful bacteria in the wound.
-
Human bites are often treated with antibiotics to prevent infection. Call your child's healthcare provider to find out if they need additional treatment or a tetanus booster.
If either the biter or the person who was bitten has a chronic illness such as HIV or hepatitis B or C virus, both people may need to be tested to see what treatment is needed.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Eric Perez MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Ronald Karlin MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN
Date Last Reviewed:
9/1/2023
© 2000-2024 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.