Insect Repellents and Bite Treatments
Whether you're travelling abroad or holidaying at home those sucking and biting beasties can attack any of us. It is true to say that some seem to attract biting insects more than others and often its those who react badly!
Whilst one may treat most minor bites effectively with oral anti-histamines and topical sprays and creams, there are a few cases where the bite becomes infected. This is particularly true with horse fly bites. If the area of inflammation is very large, red and hot and does not improve after treatment with topical creams, sprays and oral anti-histamines, it may be infected and you would need to consult your GP as anti-biotics may be needed.
With the increase of Lyme disease in the South of England especially it is worth protecting yourself from biting ticks. If walking in areas where ticks are endemic cover arms and legs to prevent being bitten and monitor any bites carefully and if you develop tiredness, muscle or joint pain and neck pain then consult your GP.
Insect repellants can provide hours of protection from biting insects and mosquitos and are especially useful when travelling abroad and essential if travelling to a malarious area.
