It is important to seek medical advice if you have received a bite that breaks the skin, as all humans and animals carry germs in their mouths which can be transmitted through the bite.
The most common animal bites in the UK are dog bites.
In the UK, it is possible to catch the disease tetanus from a bite such as a dog bite, although this is now very rare. A human bite most commonly occurs on the hand when one person punches another in the teeth.
The UK is rabies-free but in countries where rabies is common, it is possible to catch it from an animal bite, so you must seek medical advice immediately.
Symptoms of a bite are bruised, broken skin, and the amount of blood lost will vary depending on the size and depth of the bite and the area of the body that has been bitten. If the skin around the bite becomes tender, swollen, inflamed or painful, the wound may be infected and will require treatment. If you experience flu-like symptoms such as a fever, shivers or swollen glands within a week of being bitten, then see your doctor.
FIRST AID FOR BITES
Clean the wound immediately and thoroughly with running water for ten minutes. This will help to prevent infection.
* Cover the wound with a non-adhesive sterile dressing.
* Stop the bleeding by pressing firmly and holding the bitten area in the air.
* Do not use a tourniquet to stop bleeding if you have no medical experience, as it can cause permanent damage and potential loss of limb.
* If the wound is very large, or there is a lot of dirt in it, you will need to see a doctor or nurse who will clean the wound for you and decide whether or not you need stitches.
Antibiotics may be necessary if you are at particular risk of getting an infection (egg you have a low immune system or are diabetic), or if the wound is on your head, face, hand, foot or on a joint, artery, tendon or ligament.
If you are not up to date with your tetanus injections, you may need a booster jab. See your GP if you are in any doubt.
If you are bitten or licked on the face by any animal when you are abroad you should seek medical advice immediately because they may have rabies.
