• If it is a surface wound and there is no danger of rabies, clean it with soap and water, then apply antibiotic cream to prevent infection. Finally, make sure to cover the bite with clean bandage.

When to go to the hospital?

• If the skin is deeply torn and bleeding, apply pressure with a clean dry cloth to stop the bleeding before quickly going to the hospital.
• If there are any signs of infection like swelling, redness, increased pain, and oozing in the skin.
• If the bite was from a wild animal or an unimmunized pet, go to the doctor immediately because it may carry rabies.

Tetanus shots are recommended every 10 years. If the wound is deep and dirty and the last tetanus shot was five years ago, a booster may be recommended within 48 hours of the injury.

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This information is provided by the NGHA Content Advisory Board and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your health care provider.