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This page/column contains information which may be of interest to consumers. The information is based on articles which appear in Australian Prescriber. As Australian Prescriber is written for health professionals, you should discuss any issues raised by this page/column with your doctor or pharmacist. They will be able to give a more detailed answer to your questions by reading the main article.

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Australian Prescriber Vol. 29 No. 1 2006

Management of bite injuries

People who are bitten by animals or other people can develop serious infections. Signs of infection include fever and pain, swelling or pus around the bite.

Bites from dogs are more common, but bites from cats are more likely to become infected.

It is best to try and prevent infection. The first step is to clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water as soon as possible.

If the bite is likely to get infected, a doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics to try and prevent the infection. A tetanus booster may also be needed.

Some bites, such as human bites on the hand, can damage underlaying muscles or joints. These bites may need to be treated surgically as well as with antibiotics.