# Insect Bites and Stings

#### <span style="color: rgb(224, 62, 45);">**What is it?**</span>

##### <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A bite or sting from any insect.</span>

##### <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Most insect bites and stings are mild and can be treated at home. They might cause itching, swelling and stinging that go away in a day or two. Some bites or stings can transmit disease-causing bacteria, viruses or parasites. Stings from bees, yellow jackets, wasps, hornets and fire ants might cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).</span>

#### <span style="color: rgb(224, 62, 45);">**Plan of Action:**</span>

##### <span style="text-decoration: underline;">**Mild reactions:**</span>

- ##### Move to a safe area to avoid more bites or stings.
- ##### Remove any stingers.
- ##### Gently wash the area with soap and water.
- ##### Apply a cloth dampened with cold water or filled with ice to the area of the bite or sting for 10 to 20 minutes. This helps reduce pain and swelling.
- ##### If the injury is on an arm or leg, raise it.
- ##### Apply to the affected area calamine lotion, baking soda paste, or 0.5% or 1% hydrocortisone cream. Do this several times a day until your symptoms go away.
- ##### Take an anti-itch medicine (antihistamine) by mouth to reduce itching. Options include nonprescription cetirizine, fexofenadine (Allegra Allergy), loratadine (Claritin).
- ##### Take a nonprescription pain reliever as needed.

##### **Seek medical care if the swelling gets worse, the site shows signs of infection, or you don't feel well.**

#### <span style="color: rgb(224, 62, 45);">**When to seek emergency care:**</span>

##### **Call 911 or your local medical emergency number** if anyone is having a serious reaction that suggests anaphylaxis, even if it's just one or two signs or symptoms:

- ##### Trouble breathing
- ##### Swelling of the lips, face, eyelids, or throat
- ##### Dizziness, fainting, or unconsciousness
- ##### A weak and rapid pulse
- ##### Hives
- ##### Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

##### <span style="text-decoration: underline;">**Take these actions immediately while waiting for medical help:**</span>

- ##### Ask whether the injured person is carrying an epinephrine autoinjector (EpiPen, Auvi-Q, others).
- ##### If yes, ask whether you should help inject the medication. This is usually done by pressing the autoinjector against the thigh and holding it in place for several seconds.
- ##### Loosen tight clothing and cover the person with a blanket.
- ##### Don't offer anything to drink.
- ##### If needed, position the person to prevent choking on vomit.