Biting incidents at a child care centre can be a very emotional experience for children, parents and the child care staff involved due to the very small risk of transmitting blood borne diseases such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C and other skin infections. These infections are rare in children.

Before a Bite Happens

1. Ensure your facility has written policies for managing child and staff exposures to blood and bodily fluids, including bites.
2. Ensure staff have received training for proper care of bite wounds.
3. Ensure first aid equipment is readily available.
4. Ensure staff are immunized against Hepatitis B.

The following are the recommended steps that should be taken after a biting incident occurs at your facility: 

1. Provide the appropriate first aid
   • Wash the bite thoroughly with soap and water. If the wound is bleeding, gloves should be used.
   • Try to rinse the mouth of the biter with water.
2. Seek the appropriate medical attention if necessary.
3. Contact the parents/guardians of those involved in the incident as soon as possible (preferably within two hours of the incident). Enquire from the parents/guardians if their child is currently infected with Hepatitis B, C or HIV. Remember to keep information confidential within each child/family.
4. If either child has Hepatitis B, C or HIV, report the incident to the Simcoe Muskoka District Health unit immediately for further direction.
   • Clinical Services, Sexual Health Program at 705-721-7520 ext. 8376

Please ensure you have the following information available prior to calling the health unit: 

• The names, addresses and phone numbers of the individuals involved in the incident
• Contact information for the parent/guardian
• Date of the incident
• Location on the body where the bite took place