Holiday Health OTC - Insect Bites

Question 1

What are the main features of insect bites/stings?

Answer 1

Rapid onset skin reaction from an insect bite or sting is likely to be an inflammatory or allergic reaction rather than an infection.
No need for ABx.
Can become infected. Associated with: Malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever and Japanese encephalitis.

Question 2

What self care advice is given for insect bites/stings?

Answer 2

Redness and itching can last for up to 10 days, it’s unlikely that skin will become infected.
Avoid scratching
Topical CS, Anaesthetics, antihistamines (oral)
Seek medical attending if symptoms worsens rapidly or significantly at any time.

Question 3

What treatment options are available under pharmacy first for insect bites?

Answer 3

Flucloxacillin
Clarithromycin
Erythromycin

Question 4

What are the alarm symptoms for insect bites/stings?

Answer 4

Severely immunosuppressed with systemic signs of infection.
Stings where risk of airway obstruction or orbital cellulitis.
Bite/scratch caused by animal or human
UK tick bite and signs of Lyme disease; erythema migrants (bullseye) rash.
Bite/stings outside of UK with concern of insect borne disease (malaria, tick borne encephalitis)
Bite caused by unusual or exotic insect.
Systemically unwell
PAD, chronic venous insufficiency, lymphoedema, morbid obesity
Significant fluid/pus collection at Rachel of infection for incision and drainage.