Follow these tips to protect yourself from bites and stings
With the news this week that the warm temperatures and water containers in gardens are bringing us into closer contact with mosquitoes, LloydsPharmacy has issued some advice on dealing with insect bites and stings.
Changes to UK urban areas provide habitats for mosquitoes, including species known to spread malaria and West Nile virus, a study suggests. UK mosquitoes are human disease-free but the team says more of the insects breeding in urban areas increases the chances of a potential outbreak.
Samantha Preston, LloydsPharmacy’s allergy expert, says: “In most cases, insect bites and stings are simply an annoyance. Some itching or pain at the site of the bite or sting is normal, however some people experience hives or skin swelling in an area much bigger than the site of the sting, or even nausea, difficulty breathing or a drop in blood pressure. If you do experience these symptoms, known as anaphylaxis, you should seek immediate medical attention.”
Here are some top tips for protecting yourself from insect bites:
- Look for an insect repellent spray that contains DEET. This will smell and taste bad to most bugs, so should deter them from wanting to bite.
- Wearing loose long sleeves and trousers outdoors at dusk will help to protect you from bites when insects are at their most active.
- You don’t want bites to get infected, especially in children who can’t help but itch the irritating spots. Make sure to have plenty of antihistamine cream or liquid to hand to stop the itching and protect you and your family.
Product to try
Jungle Formula Insect Repellent Maximum Aerosol 125ml - £6.99 from LloydsPharmacy.com
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