Infected insect bites
Assessed by our pharmacy team under NHS Pharmacy First - no GP appointment needed for eligible patients.
Most insect bites settle within a day or two with simple care. Sometimes a bite becomes infected - usually because bacteria on the skin get in through the bite mark.
An infected bite needs more than an antihistamine. Under NHS Pharmacy First, our pharmacist can assess the bite and supply treatment where clinically appropriate.
Signs a bite has become infected
- Redness, swelling or warmth that grows rather than fades
- Pain that gets worse after the first day or two
- Pus, or the bite weeping fluid
- Redness spreading outwards from the bite
- Swollen glands near the bite
How we can help
Our pharmacist will look at the bite, ask how it has changed since you were bitten, and check your general health. If it is infected, they can supply antibiotics where clinically appropriate under NHS Pharmacy First.
If the itch is the main problem, they will also advise on antihistamines and ways to relieve the irritation safely.
Treatment
Treatment depends on how the bite presents: antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream for simple bites, and a course of antibiotics such as flucloxacillin where the bite is infected. Keep the area clean, avoid scratching, and use a cold compress to settle swelling.
Get urgent help if you have
- A high temperature, chills or feeling unwell
- Red streaks tracking away from the bite
- Rapidly spreading redness, or skin that is hot, tight and very painful
- A bite in or near the mouth, eye or genitals with significant swelling
- A known allergy to insect stings and breathing changes
Common questions
Related reading
Think you have infected insect bites?
Book an NHS Pharmacy First assessment, or walk in and speak to our team.