Human bites can be as dangerous as or even more dangerous than animal bites because of the types of bacteria and viruses in the human mouth. A human bite could be accidental or on purpose, with most bites due to another person. A human bite could arise when you cut your knuckles on another person's teeth, as might happen in a fight. Or it could be due to a cut on your knuckles from your teeth, such as from a fall. Human bites that break the skin can become infected.
To take care of a human bite that breaks the skin:
- Stop the bleeding by applying pressure with a clean, dry cloth.
- Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water.
- Apply a clean bandage. Cover the affected area with a nonstick bandage.
- Seek emergency medical care.
If you haven't had a tetanus shot within five years, your healthcare professional may recommend a booster. In this case, get the booster shot within 48 hours of the injury.
Show References
- Baddour LM, et al. Human bites: Evaluation and management. http://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Nov. 16, 2023.
- Human and mammal bites. Merck Manual Professional Version. http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/injuries_poisoning/bites_and_stings/human_and_mammal_bites.html. Accessed Nov. 16, 2023.
- Briggs JK. Bites, animal/human. In: Triage Protocols for Aging Adults. Wolters Kluwer; 2019.
Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-human-bites/basics/ART-20056633