The question: My kid was bitten at daycare and the skin broke. Should I have taken him to the emergency department?
The answer: Since the skin was broken, it is important to see a doctor. The human mouth is full of bacteria, so there is an increased risk of the wound becoming infected. It has been estimated that one millilitre of saliva contains up to 190 different species of bacteria and viruses.
The risk of infection is as high as 10 to 15 per cent; potential bacteria include staphylococcus or streptococcus. In addition to bacterial infections, there is also a risk of hepatitis (although proper vaccinations beforehand will reduce that risk). Herpes simplex can also be transmitted through saliva during a human bite. But the risk of HIV infection being transmitted is extremely unlikely.
When the skin is broken, the wound should be cleaned with mild soap and water for as long as five minutes. Washing instead of scrubbing is preferred. If the bleeding fails to stop apply pressure to the area and when things settle down use a clean bandage and see a doctor who will inspect the wound and decide if antibiotics are needed. Stitches are rarely used because closing the wound may increase the risk of infection.
In the days following the trauma, look for signs of infection such as swelling, redness, tenderness, pus, fever or red streaks running up an extremity or around the wound, which may indicate the onset of cellulitis.
Pay extra attention to bites that took place on the face, hands or genitals. (Kids at daycare ages can do all kind of things when they are frustrated, afraid or angered – including biting any body part.)
The root of the problem of children biting others varies from child to child, but the most common reason not knowing how to handle frustration or anger correctly.
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