4.9/5
Same-day NHS assessment and treatment for Insect Bites
Insect Bites
How It Works
Three simple steps to get your treatment
Step 1
Tell Us What You Need
Step 2
Book Your Convenient Appointment
Step 3
Collect or Receive Your Medication
What Is an Infected Insect Bite?
An insect bite becomes infected when bacteria enter the skin, often after scratching. This can cause the area to become increasingly red, swollen, warm, painful, or filled with pus. You may also notice the redness spreading or symptoms worsening several days after the original bite.
Infected insect bites can occur anywhere on the body, including sensitive areas such as the face or around the mouth. Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, trained pharmacy clinicians can assess infected bites quickly – without the need for a GP appointment.
If appropriate, we can provide NHS treatment, advice on caring for the skin, and guidance on when to seek further medical help.
Available Treatments
Safe, effective medications reviewed by our pharmacists
Our Clinical Team
Rifqa Jibara
Ra'eesah
Clinical Pharmacist
Common Questions
Signs of infection include increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pain, pus, or redness spreading beyond the bite. Fever or feeling unwell can also be warning signs.
Yes. The consultation is always free. If prescription medication is needed, standard NHS prescription charges apply unless you’re exempt.
No. You can access this service directly through the pharmacy without a GP referral or appointment.
Not always. Mild infections may be treated with topical antibiotic cream and self-care advice. Oral antibiotics are used when clinically necessary.
Bites on the face or near the mouth are assessed carefully. If there are any signs of spreading infection, eye involvement, or swelling affecting breathing or swallowing, we’ll arrange urgent referral to GP or hospital care.
If symptoms worsen, spread rapidly, or you develop fever, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing, you should seek urgent medical care. We’ll explain exactly what to watch for.
Yes. Consultations take place in a private consultation room or via a confidential virtual appointment.