South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control

We promote and protect the health of the public and the environment.

• Find Rabies Vaccine Clinics
• Vaccinate Dogs, Cats, Ferrets
• Learn Rabies Symptoms
• Prevent Dog Bites
• Dealing with Strays, Wild Animals
• If a Bat Gets In Your Home or Tent
• High Risk Situations

Dealing With Bites, Possible Exposures

• Administer First Aid
• Report Animal Bite/Rabies Exposures
• What Will Happen to My Animal?
• Exotic Pets, Farm Animals
• Getting Treatment for Rabies
• For Healthcare Providers
• For Veterinarians

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  S.C. Rabies Statistics
• S.C. Rabies Law
• DHEC's Role in Rabies Control

Animal Bites — First Aid

If an animal bites you, breaking the skin:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before tending to the wound. Wash hands afterwards, too.
• If bleeding, apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean, dry cloth until the bleeding stops. Keep the bite area raised up (elevated) to slow bleeding and keep swelling down.
• Once bleeding stops, wash the wound thoroughly with mild soap and running water for 3 to 5 minutes.
• Cover the bite with antibiotic ointment and a sterile bandage.
• Call your health care provider or local DHEC Public Health Clinic and follow the advice they give you.
• Over the next 24 to 48 hours, keep a close eye on the area surrounding the bite.
• If you see signs of an infection — skin redness, swelling, or pain — call your healthcare provider or have the wound examined at an emergency medical center.
• Your health care provider may prescribe antibiotics or give you a tetanus booster shot (if it's been awhile since you had one).

For additional information, contact:  (803) 896-0655  Fax (803) 896-0645