Human Bites: First Aid - Mayo Clinic

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Overview

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.

Treatment

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.

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April 24, 2024 Show references

1. Baddour LM, et al. Human bites: Evaluation and management. http://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Nov. 16, 2023.
2. 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.
3. Briggs JK. Bites, animal/human. In: Triage Protocols for Aging Adults. Wolters Kluwer; 2019.

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