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Insect bite or sting: what to do and when to get help

Most bites and stings cause only local pain, itching and swelling. A few cause serious reactions. This guide covers the first steps and the warning signs.

Call emergency services straight away if

The person has trouble breathing or swallowing.
The face, lips, tongue or throat swell.
They feel dizzy, faint or confused.
They were stung many times, or the sting is from a scorpion or a known dangerous spider.

First steps for an ordinary bite or sting

Move away from the insect or nest calmly.
If a bee stinger is in the skin, scrape it out sideways with a fingernail or card.
Wash the area with soap and water.
Apply a cold pack wrapped in cloth for 10 minutes to ease pain and swelling.
Raise the area if possible and avoid scratching.

Not sure what bug you found?

Take a photo and Insect Scanner tells you its name, whether it is dangerous and what to do. Your first scans are free.

📷 Identify a bug from a photo

Watch the bite in the following days

See a doctor if redness keeps spreading, the area becomes hot or full of pus, a blister or open wound forms, or a fever, rash, headache or joint pain appears. After a tick bite, mention it to the doctor.

Children and pets

Children react more strongly to some venoms because of their smaller size. If a child is stung by a scorpion or bitten by a widow or recluse spider, get medical help at once. For pets, call your vet.

⚠ Call emergency services straight away for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a scorpion sting in a child. This page is general information, not medical advice.

Frequently asked questions

Should I use ice on a bee sting?

A cold pack wrapped in cloth helps. Do not put ice directly on the skin.

How long does swelling from a sting last?

Usually a few hours to a few days. Large swelling that keeps growing should be checked by a doctor.