MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Animal bite

Medical Encyclopedia

Animal bite

An animal bite may not appear to be life-threatening, but if left untreated the bite can lead to a serious infection. An animal bite should be cleaned properly, and the wound should be observed for any sign of infection. If a person is bit by a wild animal the animal should be observed for rabies.

Update Date: 6/9/2008

Updated by: John E. Duldner, Jr., MD, MS, Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine Director of Research, Department of Emergency Medicine Akron General Medical Center and Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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