What do you do if a possum bites you?

Answer 1

Given that possums avoid people wherever possible, it is highly unlikely that one would bite you. However, in the evnt that one was bitten by a possum, the wisest course of action is to see a doctor, who will probably give you a tetanus shot, and treat the bite. Do not leave it untended.

Answer 2

Clean bite with soapy water and/or peroxide and consult a physician. Any mammal can get rabies. However, the chance of rabies in an opossum is EXTREMELY RARE. This may have something to do with the opossum's low body temperature (94-97º F) making it difficult for the virus to survive in an opossum's body.

Answer 3

True possums (those found in Australia and many islands arouns Australia) are frequently found in houses, whether in the roof spaces or chimneys. They rarely get into the main part of the house but, if they do, it is best to leave a wide open doorway by which they can make their escape. The possum will be frightened and, in its panic, could scratch items, people and pets on its mad dash to freedom, so it is best to simply stay clear.

Answer 4

It is highly unlikely that either a possum or an opossum (which is not a possum) would ever try to approach. Possums avoid human contact if possible, and there are really only a couple of circumstances under which a possum might approach. They are:

• If it was used to humans feeding it (which is a mistake in itself) and it was approaching in the hopes of getting more sweet foods. If this is likely to be the case, ignore it. It will not attack.
• If it was desperately thirsty, as seen in the increasing number of situations where Australian native animals have been driven out of their homes in heatwaves or because of bushfires, and are desperately seeking water. Place some water in a receptacle for it, and back away so that it can drink its fill without feeling threatened.
• If it had rabies. This is an impossible scenario because, unlike many other species of animals, opossums cannot harbour the rabies virus (their body temperature is too low), and possums live in Australia and New Zealand, where rabies does not exist.

Answer 5

Whether you have been bitten by a possum in Australia, or an opossum - a quite different creature but commonly called a possum - in North America, you should go to a doctor. A tetanus injection is the most likely course of action needed.

Answer 6

See a doctor after washing it out carefully with soap and warm water. It could become infected.