HEALTH : Beyoncé Should take Face Bite as Seriously as she takes her Career

While the mystery swirls about who bit Beyoncé, here’s what you need to know — and do — if someone goes vampire on you.

Are human bites rare?

No. “After dog and cat bites, human bites are the third most common type of bite seen in emergency rooms,” reports Healthline.com. “It’s most likely that a child will inflict the bite.”

These bites are no big deal, right?

Wrong. The risk of infection is high because these wounds contain very high levels of bacteria. Even a minor bite can get infected and lead to a severe joint infection.

“About one third of all hand infections are caused by human bite wounds,” notes the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. “These infections can move quickly and cause major complications, including destruction of the joint, if not treated promptly.”

Can diseases be passed through a bite?

Yes. That includes HIV, the hepatitis B and C virus, and syphilis, notes the AAOS. Their advice: “See a doctor within 24 hours of the injury if the skin is broken.”

If the skin isn’t broken and there’s no blood then there’s no worry, right?

Not necessarily. In some cases, the bite will not break the skin, but may cause damage to underlying tendons and joints.

So when should you go to the doctor?

Seek medical help right away if you have pain, swelling, or redness in the area of the wound. Bites near your face, feet or hands may be more serious, advises healthline.com.

In some cases, your doctor may prescribe a round of antibiotics to fight infections. In severe cases, your doctor may administer antibiotics through a vein. Deep wounds may require stitches and surgery may be necessary if there’s damage to tendons.