Infected Bites Service

Insect bites or stings may not be as serious and usually settle in a few days. They may be itchy and painful and can be relieved with antihistamine tablets or creams you can buy over the counter. Sometimes they can cause a serious allergic reaction or become infected. In this instance the pharmacy can help to provide medication.

Please visit the NHS website to get more information on how to manage bites or stings:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/insect-bites-and-stings/

This is an NHS-funded service available for patients aged 1 year and over.

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Infected Bites Symptoms

Redness of skin

Pain or tenderness to the area

Swelling of skin

Skin may feel hot in the area surrounding the bite

Blistering

No signs of systemic illness or sepsis

No uncontrolled co-morbidities and can be managed with oral antimicrobials

How does the service work?

The pharmacist consultation is provided by NHS England and is free of charge.
If you require antibiotics you will get them for free if you are entitled to free NHS prescriptions or have to pay the standard NHS prescription charge if you pay for prescription.

Is this suitable for you?

If the insect bite is not improving after 48 hours, or getting worse. If your skin feels hot to touch, and the redness and swelling is increasing visit the pharmacy.

Before you can access the service, our pharmacist will discuss the eligibility criteria with you.

How to aid healing

Hygiene measures are important to aid healing and stop infection spreading to other parts of the body and to other people.

Checklist
•Wash the affected areas with soapy water
•Wash hands before and after touching skin
•Avoid scratching affected areas and keep fingernails clean and cut short, wear cotton gloves if necessary.