How to treat an insect bite or sting | NHS

Most insect bites and stings clear up on their own in a few hours or 2 to 3 days. You can usually treat them without seeing a GP.

To reduce the risk of infection apply antiseptic to the bite or sting and try not to scratch it or burst any blisters. There’s little proof that using vinegar or bicarbonate of soda will help.

Tick bites can be more serious than other insect bites and the first aid treatment for them is different.

For more information visit https://beta.nhs.uk/conditions/insect-bites-and-stings