Infected Insect Bites Treatment Nationwide

About infected insect bites

Insect bites or stings are not usually serious and get better in a few days, but some can become infected or cause a severe allergic reaction.

Common symptoms

• Spreading redness around the bite
• Swelling, warmth or pus
• Increasing pain
• Feeling generally unwell

How Longhill Pharmacy can help

Our pharmacist can assess your symptoms and, where appropriate, supply treatment on the spot through Pharmacy First - saving you a GP appointment and getting you sorted faster. We'll also give practical advice on self-care and when to seek further help.

From the NHS website

NHS guidance on insect bites and stings

Bites from some insects can also cause illnesses, such as Lyme disease from ticks, scabies from mites, and malaria from mosquitoes in certain parts of the world.

Symptoms of an insect bite or sting

The main symptoms of an insect bite or sting are:

• pain where you were bitten or stung
• a small, swollen lump on the skin

The lump may look red. It may be more difficult to see on black or brown skin, but you should be able to feel it.

Read the full NHS guide to insect bites and stings →

Content supplied by the NHS website.

Page last reviewed: 1 June 2023 · Next review due: 1 June 2026