INSECT BITES

We’re more likely to get bitten by mosquitoes, sandflies, bees and wasps in the summer.

Unlike some countries, where mosquitoes spread terrible diseases such as Zika, here they tend to be more of an annoyance. But if you scratch the bites, they can become infected and you may need to see a doctor.

Seek medical attention if the bite hasn’t gone away after two weeks, if it gets bigger, redder and more painful, or if there is pus. Some bites can develop into a nasty infection called cellulitis, so it’s important to get treatment, especially if you spot red streaks in your skin near the bite.

To help prevent itching and swelling, keep the area cool with a cold, wet face cloth or an ice pack (try frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel).

If the itching and swelling becomes troublesome, an antihistamine may help. These are available from your chemist.

Avoid mosquito bites by wearing long-sleeved tops and trousers, using repellent, sprays and mosquito coils, and removing stagnant water – such as emptying water from trays under plant pots.

In the case of bee or wasp stings, carefully remove it using something with a hard edge, such as a credit card or fingernails. Don’t pinch or squeeze it as you may spread the venom. Wash the area with soap and cold water.

In some people, stings can cause severe allergic reactions. Call 111 if you or the person who has been stung develops symptoms such as swelling around the lips and eyes, a rapid rash, shortness of breath or wheezing, chest tightness, dizziness or fainting, difficulty swallowing or a rapid pulse.