Project Zomboid: What to Do if You Get Bitten
In Project Zomboid, seeing the "Bitten" status on your health panel is one of the most stressful moments in the game. By default, a bite from a zombie has a 100% chance of transmitting the Knox Infection. However, it doesn't have to mean your session is over.
The Mechanic: Once bitten, your character will eventually develop a fever, become increasingly anxious, and eventually die and turn into a zombie (usually within 2-3 days).
Strategies for the Infected
1. Prepare for Your Next Character
Just because your character is dying doesn't mean your world progress must reset. In Project Zomboid, the world persists after death.
- Store Your Loot: Drop all your valuable items, backpacks, and tools in a safe, easy-to-find location (like your base).
- The "Zombie Closet" Trick: Strip your character naked and lock yourself in a small room or closet. When you return as your new character, you will know exactly where your previous zombie self is. You can kill them safely and reclaim any items left on the body.
2. Go Out in a Blaze of Glory
Since your fate is sealed, many players use their final hours to clear out high-risk areas. Grab a shotgun, make as much noise as possible, and lure hundreds of zombies away from your main base. You can save your next character hours of work by "cleaning" the neighborhood before you turn.
"Cheating" Death: Admin and Mod Options
If you aren't ready to let go, there are ways to recover:
- Admin Mode: If you are the server owner or have admin rights, you can enter Admin Mode. Using the "God Mode" or "Heal" function while in the admin menu will instantly cure the infection and all wounds.
- The Antibodies Mod: This popular mod (found on the Steam Workshop) gives your character a fighting chance. If you stay well-fed, hydrated, and rested, your body can develop antibodies to fight off the infection.
Preventing Future Bites
To avoid a repeat, focus on increasing your Tailoring skill to add leather strips to your clothing, or wear high-protection gear like Kevlar Vests and Firefighter Jackets. High "Thin-Skinned" or "Clumsy" traits will also make you more susceptible to bites.
Safe survivor or walking dead? Host your Project Zomboid server with Supercraft and manage your world's infection settings with ease!