Infected insect bite treatment in Southport — free NHS service

What is infected insect bites?

Most insect bites cause mild irritation that settles within a few days. But when bacteria enter through a bite — especially one that’s been scratched — it can become infected. An infected bite causes increasing redness, warmth, swelling, and sometimes pus.

Under NHS Pharmacy First, our pharmacist can assess the bite, determine whether an infection is present, and prescribe antibiotics if needed — without a GP referral.

Symptoms of infected insect bites

• Increasing redness and swelling around the bite (not settling after 48 hours)
• Warmth or heat around the affected area
• Pus or discharge from the bite site
• Pain or tenderness that is worsening, not improving
• Swollen glands near the bite
• Fever or feeling generally unwell

How we treat it

Treatment depends on the severity of the infection:

• Antibiotic cream — for small, localised infections
• Oral antibiotics (flucloxacillin or co-amoxiclav) — for more significant or spreading infections
• Wound care guidance — keeping the area clean, not scratching
• Antihistamines — to reduce itching and prevent further scratching
• Pain relief — ibuprofen or paracetamol for discomfort

What causes infected insect bites?

An insect bite becomes infected when bacteria (usually Staphylococcus or Streptococcus) enter the broken skin. This is most likely to happen when:

• The bite has been scratched, breaking the skin further
• The bite is in an area prone to bacterial exposure
• The person has reduced immunity

Common insects that bite in the UK include midges, mosquitoes, horse flies, fleas, and bed bugs. Horse fly bites in particular are prone to infection.