Infected Bite or Sting? Get Treatment Fast.
The Infected Insect Bite Pharmacy First Service Explained
Infected insect bites are one of the seven common conditions our expert NHS Pharmacists can treat under the Pharmacy First Service. This means fast access to treatment when you need it most.
Who is eligible?
- Adults and children aged 1 year and over with symptoms of an infected insect bite or sting.
When is a bite considered infected?
- Spreading Redness (erythema) or swelling around the bite.
- Increased Pain or tenderness to the area.
- The area feels Hot to Touch.
- Pustular discharge (pus) at the site.
What to expect during your visit
Walk In or Call Ahead
While appointments are not mandatory, calling us is recommended to ensure a pharmacist is immediately available for a private consultation.
Private Consultation
The pharmacist will speak with you or the parent/carer in a confidential consultation room.
Clinical Assessment
- The pharmacist will ask about your symptoms (onset, site, duration) and confirm the infection is present at least 48 hours after the bite/sting.
- They will examine the affected area for signs of bacterial infection.
- Self-care advice (e.g., antihistamines, topical steroids, ice) may be recommended if the pharmacist believes the symptoms are an allergic reaction rather than an infection.
Treatment Plan
If an infection is confirmed and you meet the criteria, the pharmacist can supply an Oral Antibiotic (capsules/suspension, e.g., Flucloxacillin) to treat the infection. Different antibiotics (e.g., Clarithromycin or Erythromycin for pregnant individuals aged 16+) are available if you have a penicillin allergy.
Safety Netting
You will receive clear advice on how to care for the bite, when to expect improvement, and what 'red flag' symptoms mean you should seek urgent medical help.
GP Notification
We will electronically notify your GP of the consultation and the treatment provided, ensuring your medical record is kept up-to-date.
Red Flag Symptoms – When to Seek Urgent Care
The Pharmacy First service is for localised, uncomplicated infections. You should call 999 or go to A&E immediately if you or your child show any signs of a severe allergic reaction or widespread infection, such as:
- Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or tightness in the throat/chest.
- Sudden, severe swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.
- The bite/sting is in the mouth or throat.
- Signs of a systemic infection:
- High temperature/fever.
- Feeling generally very unwell (flu-like symptoms).
- A spreading red line leading away from the bite.
- Evidence of Erythema Migrans (the ‘bullseye’ rash indicative of a potential tick bite/Lyme disease).
Pharmacy Information
Your Local Erdington Pharmacy
238 Wheelwright Road, Erdington, Birmingham, B24 8EH
Opening Hours:
Monday -Friday : 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sunday : Closed
Call Us: 0121 377 8811
Visit us today for a fast, local, and professional assessment for your infected insect bite.
Disclaimer: The NHS Pharmacy First service for Infected Insect Bites is available for individuals aged 1 year and over and is subject to a clinical assessment by the pharmacist and patient eligibility. Standard NHS prescription charges apply unless the patient is exempt.