Guidelines
Human Bite

Human Bite

Routine Practices

  • Review Hepatitis B and tetanus immunization status
  • The transmission of blood borne pathogens (Hepatitis B, C, and HIV) following a bite wound in children is extremely unlikely
  • Post-exposure prophylaxis for Hepatitis B is recommended if the exposure to blood or body fluids was from an index case known to be hepatitis B antigen positive and the patient has not been previously immunized against Hepatitis B
  • If the Hepatitis B status is unknown, both children should receive the HBV vaccine
  • If there is a particularly high risk situation regarding HIV transmission, consult ID
  • Uninfected bite wounds should not be cultured
  • For infected bite wounds, obtain a deep wound swab for Gram stain and culture

Common Pathogens

E. corrodens

Oral Anaerobes

Treatment

Prophylactic use of antibiotics should only be considered for:

  • Bites that cause moderate or severe tissue damage
  • Deep puncture wounds
  • Bites to the face, hand, foot, or genital area that are more than simple superficial abrasions

More Information

J Trauma Acute Care Surg. 2015 Mar;78(3):641-8