Human/Animal Bites
Antimicrobial prescribing: NHS Grampian, Orkney & Shetland
Warning
What's new / Latest updates
Duration changed to 3 days for prophylaxis, 5 days for treatment.
Notes section updated
- Assess the type and severity of the bite, including:
- what caused the bite
- the site and depth of the wound
- whether it is infected.
- Assess the risk of tetanus, rabies or a blood borne viral infection and take appropriate action.
- Manage the wound with irrigation and debridement as necessary.
- Be aware of potential safeguarding issues.
- Seek specialist advice from a microbiologist for bites from a wild or exotic animal (including birds and non-traditional pets).
- Consider seeking specialist advice from a microbiologist for domestic animal bites (including farm animal bites) you are unfamiliar with.
- For advice on management and when to refer to hospital or seek specialist advice refer to CKS.
Refer to NICE guidance for advice on when antibiotic prophylaxis is indicated.
Duration: Prophylaxis 3 days, Treatment 5 days
Drug details
Co-Amoxiclav 625mg three times daily
for 3 days for prophylaxis or 5 days for treatment
Penicillin allergic
Doxycycline 100mg twice daily
(not suitable for those under 12 years - contact microbiology for advice on alternative options)
PLUS
Metronidazole 400mg three times daily
for 3 days for prophylaxis or 5 days for treatment