Insect bites and stings can be simply divided into 2 groups : venomous and non-venomous. A sting is usually from an attack by a venomous insect such as a bee or wasp, which uses this as a defence mechanism by injecting toxic and painful venom through its stinger. Whereas non-venomous insect bites pierce the skin to feed on your blood. This usually results in intense itching.
Can Insect Bites and Stings be Prevented ?
The following simple measures can prevent insect stings and bites :
- Avoid perfume and bright-coloured clothing to reduce the risk of bee stings
- Control odours at picnics, garbage areas etc that can attract insects
- Destroy or relocate hives or nests close to your home
- Don't leave pools of stagnating water as these attract mosquitoes
- Electrical insect repelling devices and lit coils may be effective
- Cover all parts of the body with clothing, hats, socks, and gloves if going into areas where there is a high likelihood of getting bitten or stung
- Maintain good personal and household hygiene
- De-flea cats, dogs and other household pets regularly
- Use insect repellents, which are readily available from pharmacies or supermarkets. Those containing D.E.E.T (diethyltoluamide) are the most effective.
- Permethrin can be applied to clothing to give protection for two weeks, through two washings. It can also be applied directly to exposed skin keeping the insects away for a few days.
- Thiamine (vitamin B1) can be used as a systemic insect repellent (the skin has a characteristic smell)
