Treatment
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.
Urgent Care Near You
Get care for minor illnesses and injuries. Walk in to a clinic on O‘ahu or Kaua‘i, or schedule a Virtual Urgent Care visit.
View LocationsRelated Articles
Esophageal Blockage, Resolved
The esophagus can become blocked after swallowing a large piece of food, taking a large pill, or swallowing foreign objects. Recurring blockage can be a sign of disease in the esophagus.
First Aid: Shock
Shock occurs when the body's supply of oxygen decreases. First aid can slow the progression of this life-threatening condition until emergency medical care is available.
Snakebites
Snakebites are often harmless, but a few can be deadly. Even nonpoisonous bites may sometimes cause an infection or allergic reaction. That's why getting treatment right away is vital. Read on to learn more.
First Aid: Heat Exposure
Be prepared. Know what to do for heat exposure.
