Insect Bites/Stings

Question 1

What are 8 symptoms of insect bites/stings?

Answer 1

1. Itching papules (Primary symptom).
2. Scratching may lead to secondary infection.
3. Weals (red swollen mark).
4. Bullae (fluid filled sacked).
5. Pain.
6. Lesions
7. Often localised in groups.
8. Common on exposed areas for example, Hands, Ankles, Face.

Question 2

What are 4 symptoms of insect stings?

Answer 2

1. Intense burning pain.
2. Erythema (Usually subside within hours)
3. Oedema (Usually subside within hours)
4. If systemic symptoms present, they will occur within minutes of the sting occurring

Question 3

Do insect bites/stings require a counselling room?

Answer 3

No

Question 4

What are 6 red flags for referral with insect bites/stings?

Answer 4

1. Redness around the bite/sting that has expanded over the course of a few days and/or resembles a bullseye.
2. Signs of an anaphylactic reaction.
3. Extensive skin symptoms such as hives on areas other than the bite/sting site.
4. Lesions worsening or present for longer than 7 days.
5. Lesions appear infected.
6. Swollen lymph nodes or flu-like symptoms.

Question 5

Do insect bites/stings have a PSA self-care card?

Answer 5

No

Question 6

What is the preferred treatment option for insect bites/stings?

Answer 6

Hydrocortisone 1% Cream (Dermaid)

Question 7

What are the directions for Hydrocortisone 1% Cream (Dermaid) in insect bites/stings?

Answer 7

Adult and children over 2 years: Apply to the affected areas 1 to 2 times daily as required for up to 7 days. DO NOT apply to broken skin.

Question 8

Is Hydrocortisone 1% Cream (Dermaid) safe in pregnancy?

Answer 8

Yes

Question 9

Is Hydrocortisone 1% Cream (Dermaid) safe in breastfeeding?

Answer 9

Yes

Question 10

What is the age range for Hydrocortisone 1% Cream (Dermaid)?

Answer 10

Safe in children over 2 years

Question 11

What are 8 pieces of non-pharmacological advice for insect bites/stings?

Answer 11

1. If stung by a bee or wasp do not push the stinger that pierced your skin, this could release more venom.
2. Gently remove the stinger by pushing it out from the sides; a fingernail or blunt knife can help, scraping along the skin.
3. Apply a cold pack, and if you have a history of allergy, or are stung on your face or tongue, seek immediate medical attention.
4. Clean the area with water and/or gentle soap.
5. Rest and raise the affected area (above the level of your heart)
6. If you react badly to bites or stings, such as from bees, cover your body to avoid them or use insect repellent
7. If you have a documented severe allergy to insect bites or stings, carry an EpiPen and wear a medical alert bracelet.
8. Contact the Poisons Information Centre immediately if you are bitten by a spider (Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year).