Insect Bites and Stings

As the weather encourages us to be outdoors during the longer warmer nights, we can become more prone to insect bites and stings. Insects thrive in hot and humid conditions and during this time of year it can quickly turn into a feeding frenzy if we don’t take precautions.

Even though getting bitten may affect some more than others, we should all do our utmost to take precautions to stay safe from insects. 

Most insect bites and stings are not poisonous, and are usually caused by mosquitoes, flies, fleas, spiders, ticks, wasps, bees, and beetles. In Australia, it is rare for insects to transmit diseases to people. 

All insect bites may cause allergic reactions. The size of the reaction also depends on the degree of allergy your child has. Very occasionally, children may have a severe allergic reaction, called anaphylaxis.

Signs and symptoms of insect bites and stings

If your child has been bitten or stung by an insect, they may have:

• a minor skin reaction with a painful, itchy lesion at the site of the bite or sting
• a more significant reaction, with a larger area of swelling and redness, and sometimes blisters.

If your child is having a severe allergic reaction, they may show the following signs of anaphylaxis:

• a widespread rash (hives) or severe itching
• coughing, wheezing or choking
• difficulty breathing and swallowing
• difficulty talking and/or hoarse voice
• swelling of the lips or tongue
• fainting 
• becoming pale and floppy (young children).

Care at home

Most insect bites or stings can be treated at home. If your child has been stung by a bee, carefully scrape the sting out. Do not pinch and pull the sting out, as this will cause more poison to be injected.

For all bites and stings:

• Wash the skin around the bite or sting.
• A plain, unscented moisturising cream may help to decrease the itch.
• Use cool, wet towels or face washers to help with pain and swelling.
• If an arm or leg is bitten, have your child rest with the limb raised above the heart to reduce the swelling.
• If your child continues to scratch the bite or sting, you can give them an antihistamine medicine. This medicine is given by mouth and can be purchased from the pharmacy.
• Steroid creams applied early and regularly onto the sting or bite site can often give relief. These creams are available from your chemist.

Prevention

Outdoors

• Keep picnic food covered and wipe up spills immediately.
• Dress your child in long-sleeved shirts and pants that fit snugly around the wrists and ankles.
• Make sure rubbish bins are securely fastened so the contents don't attract insects.
• Stay away from pools of stagnant (still) water, which are breeding grounds for mosquitos.
• Avoid perfumes and scented lotions, soaps and cosmetics.
• Cover infant strollers with netting.

Insect repellents

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and only use insect repellents sparingly.
• In young children, insect repellents are safest if rubbed or sprayed on clothing rather than skin. Don't spray them on the skin of children under the age of 12 months.
• Reapply insect repellent to your child after swimming or activities that make them sweat.

Indoors

• Don't turn the lights on in bedrooms until the windows are closed (or screened) and the curtains are drawn.
• Fit insect screens to windows.

Remember

• Most insect bites and stings are not poisonous and can be cared for without seeing a doctor.
• If your child has been bitten by a bee, try to scrape the sting off. Do not pull the sting out, as this causes more poison to be injected.
• Any medicine your child needs for insect bites or stings should be always carried with them. If they have medication at school due to an allergy, please fill out an Allergy action plan provided by your doctor or our school First Aid officer.
• Call an ambulance if your child has symptoms of anaphylaxis.