Infected Insect Bite

Most insect bites and stings are harmless and settle on their own within a few days. Occasionally one becomes infected — the area gets redder, more swollen, warm to the touch, or starts to weep — and that is when it needs treating rather than waiting out.

Under NHS Pharmacy First, our pharmacist can assess an infected bite and supply antibiotics where they are needed, without you seeing a GP. The consultation is free, and there is no prescription charge unless you normally pay for prescriptions and one is issued.

Who we can treat

Anyone aged one year and over with a bite or sting that shows signs of infection.

Signs it may be infected rather than simply irritated:

• Redness spreading outwards from the bite, or a hard, swollen lump around it.
• The area feels hot, increasingly painful, or is weeping or crusting.
• Swollen glands nearby, or feeling generally unwell.

Redness can be harder to see on black or brown skin, but the swelling, heat and tenderness will still be there.

When we will send you elsewhere

• Babies under one year old.
• A bite that is spreading quickly, or red streaks running from it — this needs a doctor the same day.
• Bites from ticks, or any bite picked up abroad.
• Signs of an allergic reaction: swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, dizziness. Call 999.
• Anyone with a weakened immune system.

How the appointment works

We are an NHS distance selling pharmacy, so this consultation is by phone rather than at a counter. Book a time and a pharmacist will call you. You will be asked to send a clear photograph of the bite beforehand — good light and a close, focused picture help a great deal — and the pharmacist will say so if the image is not clear enough to judge safely.

If treatment is appropriate it is dispensed and delivered to your door, free of charge.

Treatment

Not every infected bite needs antibiotics — many settle with cleaning, a cool compress and something for the itch. Where infection is established, the pharmacist can supply a short course of antibiotics. Finish the course as directed, even once it looks better.

When to get help sooner

Contact your GP or NHS 111 if the redness keeps spreading after 48 hours of treatment, if you develop a fever, or if the area becomes very painful. Call 999 for any swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing.