Insect Bites and Stings in Children

WHAT IS IT?

Most insect bites and stings are not poisonous, and are usually caused by mosquitoes, flies, fleas, spiders, ticks, wasps, bees and beetles. 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

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of insect bites or stings can vary a lot depending on how sensitive your child is to that insect

Mild Reaction Itching of the lesion Minor Swelling of the area Redness of the area Minor pain of the area

Severe Reaction A widespread rash Severe itching Difficulty breathing Wheezing, coughing or choking Difficulty talking Swelling of tongue or lips Feeling faint or fainting Becoming pale

If your child has any signs of a severe reaction, call an ambulance (000) immediately.

TREATMENT
Treatments are aimed at providing relief from the allergic response to the bite, such as the itching, swelling and redness.

1. 1. Steroid Creams: Apply early and regularly onto the sting or bite site can often give relief. These creams can be purchased over the counter without a doctor’s prescription
2. 2. Antihistamine: This helps to settle the provide some relief to the itching and is available over the counter

NON-MEDICINAL APPROACHES

• Wash the skin around the bite or sting
• A simple and plain moisturising cream may help to decrease the itch
• Apply a cool compress to help alleviate the pain and swelling

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR

• Lots of pain where they were stung or bitten, and it does not settle down within a few hours
• The swelling or itching worsens after 24–48 hours
• If you are worried for any reason