Health chiefs in the Black Country are reminding people to make their local pharmacy the first port of call for insect bites and stings this summer.
Insect bites and stings can occur at any time of the year, but as the weather gets warmer and people spend more time outdoors the chances of getting bitten or stung increases.
Most insect bites and stings are not serious and will get better within a few hours or days. However, occasionally they can become infected, cause a severe allergic reaction or, in rare cases, spread serious illnesses such as Lyme disease and malaria.
An insect bite or sting often causes a small, red lump on the skin which may be painful or itchy. There are multiple ways to treat a sting or bite, including:
•Removing the sting, tick or hairs if still in the skin
•Washing the affected area with soap and water
•Applying a cold compress or an ice pack to any swelling for at least 10 minutes
•Raising or elevating the affected area, if possible, as this can help reduce swelling
•Avoiding scratching the area or bursting any blisters to reduce the risk of infection
•Avoiding traditional home remedies such as vinegar and bicarbonate of soda as they are unlikely to help.
The pain, swelling and itchiness can be uncomfortable but there are over-the-counter treatments and remedies available from local pharmacies to make this more bearable, such as painkillers, creams for itching and antihistamines.
Stephen Noble, local pharmacist and Chief Officer of the Dudley Local Pharmaceutical Committee, said: “With the warm weather that summer brings, many people spend more time outdoors and wear less clothes, so inevitably we see an increase in insect bites and strings.
“Most bites and stings clear up on their own, but some can be very painful and take a while to heal. Pharmacists are highly trained experts in medicines, and they can offer you advice and treatments without you needing to go and see a doctor, so you should always make your local pharmacy the first place you go for help with insect bites and stings.
“As well as getting the right medication from your pharmacist if you need it, there are simple precautions you can take to reduce your risk of being bitten or stung by insects during the summer months. This includes remaining calm and moving away slowly if you encounter wasps, hornets or bees, covering exposed skin by wearing long sleeves and trousers, wearing shoes when outdoors and applying insect repellent to exposed skin.”
Patients registered with GP practices in the Black Country can also make use of the Pharmacy First service. This service provides people who are exempt from prescription charges with free over-the-counter medicines, so they do not need to see a GP to receive the medication on prescription. Click here for more information.
You can find your nearest pharmacy, and check opening times, here.
