Summer wellbeing

Insect bites

When the weather gets warmer there are more insects around. Some of them can bite or sting.

Most bites and stings can be easily treated at home and will clear up within a few hours or days.

The general advice for treating bites and stings is to remove the sting, clean the area thoroughly with soap and water, then put something cold on the skin.

If you can, raise the affected area.

To reduce the risk of infection, put some antiseptic on to the bite or sting and try not to scratch the skin.

If the bite or sting is on the face, the reaction can be worse so call 111 for first aid advice.