Insect Bites and Stings

​Insect bites and stings usually only cause minor irritation, such as swollen, itchy, red marks on the skin that last for a few days.

Some bites or stings can be painful or trigger more serious allergic reactions like nausea, facial swelling, breathing difficulties, stomach pain or shock.

HOW TO TREAT AT HOME

• If there is a stinger in your skin, gently scrape it off with your fingernail or the edge of a card. Do NOT pinch the sting out with your fingers or use tweezers as you may spread the venom.
• Wash the bite with soap and water, and pat dry.
• Place an ice pack (wrap a bag of ice in a towel), then place this on the wound.
• Do not scratch the bite as this may cause infection.
• If the bite is painful or swollen, consult your neighbourhood pharmacist about over-the-counter medication like Paracetamol or Ibuprofen.
• If the wound is itchy or swollen, apply a topical cream containing antihistamines or mild hydrocortisone (1%).

SEE YOUR GP IF:

• There are signs of infection, e.g. increasing redness, pain, swelling, fever.
• The sting fills with pus.
• You experience flu-like symptoms.

GO TO THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT IF YOU HAVE:

• Been stung three or more times.
• Been stung in the mouth
• Pain itching or swelling on other parts of your body, e.g. mouth or face
• Symptoms of systemic reactions like:
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Nausea, vomiting or Diarrhoea
  • Fast heart rate
  • Giddiness
  • Confusion or agitation
  • Pale skin