The rat bite must be treated quickly, as it carries the risk of transmitting infections and causing diseases such as rat bite fever, leptospirosis or even rabies.
First aid should be started at home as soon as the accident happens, and consists of:
- Wash the wound with running water and soap, or with saline solution, for 5 to 10 minutes, removing the remains of saliva or any impurity that may be contaminating the wound; Cover the area with gauze or a clean cloth; Go to the health center or emergency room, where the wound can be washed again, disinfected with povidine or chlorhexidine and, if necessary, the removal of some dead tissue and suture by the doctor.
After the procedure, a dressing is made, which must be changed the next day or earlier, if the dressing gets wet or becomes soiled with blood or secretions. If the wound starts showing signs of infection, such as purulent discharge, redness or swelling, the doctor may prescribe the use of an antibiotic.
Check out, in the video below, more tips on what to do in case of bite of any animal:
When vaccinations are needed
The tetanus vaccine is recommended after this type of injury, if it is not up to date, as it prevents infection by the bacterium Clostridium tetani , which is present in the environment, such as in soil or dust. See when to get the tetanus vaccine.
The vaccine against rabies or anti-rabies serum may be indicated if the rat is of unknown origin, as in these cases the risk of transmission of the rabies virus is greater. In the case of domestic mice or hamsters , the risk is much lower and vaccination is not necessary, unless the animal exhibits behavioral changes or characteristic symptoms of rabies. Also check when the rabies vaccine is needed.
What diseases can be transmitted
The rat may contain microorganisms in its secretions that cause disease in humans, especially the sewage rat.
The main disease that can arise is Mouse Bite Fever, in which bacteria such as Streptobacillus moniliformis , can reach the bloodstream and cause fever, malaise, redness of the skin, muscle pain, vomiting and, in some cases, cause complications severe as pneumonia, meningitis and abscesses by the body. Learn about the symptoms and treatment of mouse bite fever.
Other diseases that can be transmitted by the secretions of rats and rodents include leptospirosis, hantavirus, rabies or bubonic plague, for example, which can be serious and lead to death- Therefore, it is very important to adopt environmental hygiene measures, such as remove rubbish, debris, dirt and keep plants well cared for, to prevent the presence of these animals close to homes.
