Human Bites

Human bites cause trauma to the skin and can become more easily infected than animal bites because of the large amount of bacteria that is naturally found in human mouths. Because of this high potential for infection, you should always seek medical care for any type of human bite, regardless of how your wound appears.

Treatment
Once you see your health care provider, your wound will most likely be irrigated with a sterile solution to clean it of all debris and most bacteria. Because of the high potential for infection following a human bite, almost all patients are given a 3- to 5-day course of antibiotics to prevent infection. The antibiotic of choice is usually Augmentin, but this may not be suitable for you if you have a penicillin allergy. If this is the case, your health care provider can choose a safer antibiotic for you. Most bite wounds are left open and are not stitched so that bacteria does not get trapped and multiply in the wound. If you have not had a tetanus booster in the last 5 years, you should get vaccinated right away. If your bite is in an area where there isn't a lot of fat padding, such as on your knuckles, your health care provider may want to monitor you more closely, as bite wounds in these locations tend to get infected more easily. If your wound is not severe and does not show any signs of an infection at the time of your initial visit, your health care provider will probably send you home with some directions on how to take care of your wound. Most providers recommend washing the wound with mild soap and water at least 2 to 3 times per day. Keep an eye on your wound and watch for signs of infection such as increased tenderness, swelling, redness, drainage or fever. If you have any signs of an infection following a bite injury, you should contact your health care provider right away.