Animal bites
Although animal bites are not officially notifiable by
state statute, they occur commonly and carry a risk of infection with
various disease agents. Animal bite wounds should be washed immediately
and thoroughly with soap and water. A health care provider should be
promptly consulted about the possible need for antibiotic treatment and
tetanus vaccination.
Because of the possibility of rabies virus transmission,
the biting animal should be captured if it is safe to do so. In the case
of an owned domestic animal, information on the owner and location of
the animal should be obtained. DO NOT DESTROY OR RELEASE AN ANIMAL THAT
HAS BITTEN A PERSON until one consults with a public health official. In
nearly all cases, observation or testing of the animal can eliminate the
need to administer the series of injections to prevent rabies.
Rabies home
Clinicians should know that reporting animal bites for
the purpose of public health follow-up is not considered a
confidentiality breach, nor is it a violation of HIPAA regulations. Bite
reports can be made to the local public health department or to law
enforcement.
Animal Bites |
Diagnostic testing | Rabies in Wisconsin
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