Treatment options

If the person has had the insect bite for a short time, the reaction is localised and there is no sign of infection, usually no treatment other than simple first aid is required. You could advise the person to:

• Clean the area
• Use a cold compress to help reduce pain and swelling
• Avoid scratching to prevent infection
• Take oral pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
• Take oral antihistamines (such as chlorphenamine) or apply a topical corticosteroid (such as hydrocortisone 1% cream), which may help reduce itching and inflammation
• Not apply topical antihistamines, as they might exacerbate symptoms.¹

If there are signs of infection, then the person may need oral antibiotics in accordance with local prescribing protocols or malarial treatment (depending on the type of infection).¹