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Insect Bites and Stings

What is it?

A bite or sting from any insect.
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).

Plan of Action:

Mild reactions:
  • 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.

When to seek emergency care:

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
Take these actions immediately while waiting for medical help:
  • 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.
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