The first aid that you do will depend upon what type of bite that you have. Depending upon the severity of the dog bite, there are several steps that you need to follow. If the bite is on the hand, head, or foot, or if it is a deep or gaping wound, then you need to visit your doctor. If the bite continues to bleed for longer than 15 minutes, despite putting pressure on the wound, then a doctor visit will be in order as well. Cleaning the bite gently with soap and water is essential if the bite is minor or major. If it is a minor bite, you will want to cover it with a sterile bandage to help keep it clean and free from infection. If there are any signs of infection, including red streaks, fever, warmth in the bitten area, or the oozing of pus, you will want to check with the doctor, as you may need an antibiotic. A tetanus shot may be needed if you have not had one in the last five years and you need to contact your animal control department to ensure that the dog is watched for ra bies.

For the most part, insect bites are not dangerous to your health. Although the insect does release venom or other substances into your body, this does not normally have a large effect on the body, unless you are allergic to it. Depending upon the severity of your allergy, an insect bite can range in symptoms from minor ones, like itching, stinging, or mild swelling, to more major ones, including difficulty breathing, facial swelling, and shock. Fire ants are the most common insect bites that cause severe allergic reactions. For minor insect bite reactions, first aid would include removing the stinger, applying a cold pack to the bitten area to prevent swelling, using hydrocortisone cream on the affected area, and taking an over the counter antihistamine like Benadryl or Actifed. The more severe insect bite reactions may progress very quickly, so quick action is essential. You will first need to call for medical attention. If the person who is bitten has a special allergic reaction device, like an Epi-Pen, you want to inject it as soon as possible. If not, try to get the person to take an antihistamine and have them lie still with their feet higher than their head. If they are wearing tight clothing, loosen it and cover them with a blanket. If the person stops breathing, begin CPR and continue until medical help arrives. Insect bites are not something to take lightly. By watching the bite and the person bitten carefully, you can determine what first aid that they need to help keep them healthy.

Human bites are considered very dangerous, especially if the skin is broken, becauase the human mouth carries many different bacteria and viruses. If skin is broken, the first thing you want to do is stop the bleeding by putting pressure on the wound. Clean the area with soap and water, as you do with any bite, and apply an antibiotic cream to prevent infection. A sterile dressing is needed to cover and protect the wound. Medical care is recommended, as you may need a tetanus booster or antibiotics to help prevent the wound from creating further medical problems.

No matter what type of bite that is inflicted upon you or a member of your family, proper first aid will be needed. Whether it is cleaning with soap and water or visiting the doctor, you want to do everything possible to keep yourself and your family healthy.