If bitten or stung by an insect, try to kill it and have it identified (if it can be done quickly and safely).

Most bites and stings do not require emergency medical care. However, possible complications to insect bites and stings include: allergic reaction, shock, reaction to venom (see wasp and bee poison documents), toxic reaction, or infection.

Allergic reactions to insect bites or stings occur very quickly, usually within minutes, and severe reactions can be rapidly fatal if untreated. Approximately 0.5% of the population develop severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) to insect stings.

Common causes include:

• Black widow spider bite
• Brown recluse spider bite
• Bumblebee sting
• Fire-ant sting
• Honey bee sting
• Hornet sting
• Scorpion bite
• Tarantula bite
• Tick bite
• Wasp sting
• Yellow jacket sting

Symptoms vary according to insect and individual, but may include:

• Bite, sting, or wound
• Localized pain, redness, swelling, or itching
• Burning, numbness, or tingling
• Rash
• Difficulty breathing
• Coughing or wheezing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache

1. Check the victim's airway, breathing, and circulation. If necessary, begin rescue breathing and CPR.
   
   
2. Reassure the victim. Try to keep him or her calm, as anxiety will worsen the situation.
   
   
3. If the sting is from a honey bee, remove the stinger from the skin if it is still present. Carefully scrape the back of a knife or other thin straight-edged object across the stinger if the victim can remain still, and it is safe to do so. Otherwise, you can pull out the stinger with tweezers or your fingers, but avoid pinching the venom sac at the end of the stinger which will cause more venom to be released.
   
   
4. Wash the site thoroughly with soap and water.
   
   
5. Cover the site with a clean, cold compress or a clean, moist dressing to reduce swelling and discomfort.
   
   
6. Remove nearby rings and constricting items because the affected area may swell.
   
   
7. Give first aid for an allergic reaction, if necessary.
   
   
8. If appropriate, treat the victim for signs of shock. Remain with the victim until medical help arrives.
   
   
9. Over the next 24 to 48 hours, observe the site for signs of infection (such as increasing redness, swelling, pain).
   
   

1. If a tick has bitten you and it is still attached, remove it. Grasp it close to its head or mouth with tweezers or with the fingernails, and pull it straight out with a slow and steady motion.
   
   
2. Clean the area thoroughly with soap and water.
   
   
3. Save the tick and watch carefully for the next week or two for signs of Lyme disease.
   
   
4. If all the parts of the tick cannot be removed, get medical help.

• DO NOT apply a tourniquet.
• DO NOT give the victim stimulants, aspirin, or other pain medication unless prescribed by the doctor.
• DO NOT allow the victim to exercise. If necessary, carry the victim to safety.

If the victim is having a severe reaction or the victim has been stung inside the mouth or throat, call immediately for emergency medical assistance.

• Avoid provoking insects, whenever possible.
• Avoid rapid, jerky movements around insect hives or nests.
• Wear light-colored clothing.
• Use appropriate insect repellants and/or protective clothing.
• Use caution when eating outdoors, especially with sweetened beverages or in areas around garbage cans which often attract bees.