NHS Pharmacy First · Infected insect bites
Insect bite getting worse? See a pharmacist.
Most insect bites settle within a few days. If yours is getting redder, more swollen or more painful, it may be infected. Our pharmacist can check it and treat it on the NHS for anyone aged 1 and over.
- Age 1 and over
- Free consultation
- About 15 minutes
- Walk in, or book
Can I use Pharmacy First for infected insect bites?
Yes, if
- Aged 1 or older
- A bite or sting that looks infected
Not covered
- Babies under 1
- Bites from animals or people (contact your GP or NHS 111)
- A tick bite with a spreading circular rash, which can be a sign of Lyme disease (see your GP)
- A weakened immune system
Not covered? Come in anyway if you’d like advice. Our pharmacist will help where they can, and tell you who to see if they can’t.
Symptoms
- redness and swelling that keeps spreading
- pain that’s getting worse, not better
- the skin feels hot
- pus in or around the bite
- it’s been getting worse for more than 2 days
What happens when you come in
Walk in, or book a time
Ask at the counter for Pharmacy First. You don’t need to see your GP first.
A private chat with the pharmacist
The pharmacist looks at the bite and asks when it happened and how it’s changed. A bite that’s just itchy and lumpy isn’t usually infected; they’ll suggest something to ease it.
Advice, and treatment if you need it
The pharmacist explains what they think is going on and what will help. Any medicine they give you is supplied on the NHS.
We let your GP know
A short note goes to your GP surgery, so your record is up to date. If you need to see a doctor, we’ll tell you.
What treatment might I get?
If the bite is infected, the pharmacist may offer you antibiotic tablets on the NHS.
For bites that aren’t infected, creams and antihistamines can ease the itching and swelling.
Looking after yourself
- Wash the bite with soap and water
- Hold a cold compress or ice pack (wrapped in a cloth) on it for 10 minutes
- Raise the area if you can, to reduce swelling
- Try not to scratch it
What it costs
The consultation is free. If the pharmacist gives you a medicine, you pay the usual NHS prescription charge for it, unless you get free prescriptions (for example if you’re under 16, 60 or over, pregnant, or get certain benefits). Check if you get free prescriptions.
Questions people ask
How do I know if it’s infected?
An infected bite usually gets worse after the first day or two instead of better: redder, more swollen, hotter and more painful, sometimes with pus. If you’re not sure, come in and we’ll take a look.
Do I need an appointment?
No. Walk in any time we’re open and ask for Pharmacy First. If you’d rather not wait, book a time online. GP surgeries and NHS 111 can also send you to us.
How long does it take?
About 15 minutes with the pharmacist. If they’re with someone else, you may have a short wait.
Will my GP know?
Yes. We send a short note to your GP surgery afterwards, so your medical record stays up to date.
Is it private?
Yes. You’ll be seen in our private consultation room.
What should I bring?
A list of any medicines you take, including ones you buy yourself. Children under 16 should come with a parent or guardian.
Ready to be seen?
Walk in any time we’re open: Monday to Saturday, 8:00am to 10:30pm. Sunday, 12 noon to 10:30pm. Or book a time and skip the wait.