Insect bites and stings - Prevention
Alternative Names
Bedbug bite; Bee sting; Bites - insects, bees, and spiders; Black widow spider bite; Brown recluse bite; Flea bite; Honey bee or hornet sting; Lice bites; Mite bite; Scorpion bite; Spider bite; Wasp sting; Yellow jacket sting
Prevention:
- Avoid provoking insects whenever possible.
- Avoid rapid, jerky movements around insect hives or nests.
- Avoid perfumes and floral-patterned or dark clothing.
- Use appropriate insect repellants and protective clothing.
- Use caution when eating outdoors, especially with sweetened beverages or in areas around garbage cans, which often attract bees.
- For those who have a serious allergy to insect bites or stings, carry an emergency epinephrine kit (which requires a prescription). Friends and family should be taught how to use it if you have a reaction. Wear a medical ID bracelet.
- Reviewed last on: 2/19/2008
- John E. Duldner, Jr., MD, MS, Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine, Director of Research, Department of Emergency Medicine, Akron General Medical Center and Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
References
Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Textbook of Medicine, 22nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders; 2004.
Noble J, Greene HL, Levinsen W, eds. Textbook of Primary Care Medicine. 3rd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2001.
Auerbach PS, ed. Wilderness Medicine. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2001.