First Aid for Bites and Stings

10th July – Don’t step on a Bee day

The 10th July is ‘Don’t step on a Bee day’.  There’s been a lot in the media recently about the fate of our bees and how much we need them for the pollination of our food.  It’s obviously important for the bee not to be trodden on, but if you do it’s important to know your first aid for bites and stings.

Immediately after a bite or sting

If stung by a bee the sting may be left behind so carefully remove it with clean tweezers.  Bicarbonate can be a useful household treatment for bee stings, whereas vinegar is useful for wasps.  There are preparations available from your pharmacist that can reduce the inflammation.

First 24-48 hours

In the first 24-48 hours bites and stings may swell, be itchy, become red and inflamed.  It’s important to note for any signs of infection – which are worsening redness, heat and inflammation and especially any red lines travelling away from the site of the bite or sting.  If concerned seek the advice of a health professional.

Allergic reactions

Some people suffer from severe allergic reactions to bites or stings (anaphylaxis).  Therefore if someone complains of any difficulty breathing after being stung or any of the other signs listed here seek emergency medical assistance.  They may have an adrenaline autoinjector if they’re known to have reactions.  These are safe to be given by anyone for life saving purposes.

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