Most insect bites are minor nuisances that clear up in a day or two. However, when a bite becomes infected, it requires prompt clinical attention to prevent further complications. At Massinghams Chemist, we provide expert infected insect bite treatment in Bethnal Green, ensuring your skin heals safely and quickly.
As part of the NHS Pharmacy First initiative, our pharmacists are now empowered to assess and treat infected insect bites for adults and children aged 1 year and over. This means you can get the medical help you need right here in London E2 without waiting for a GP appointment.
It is normal for a bite to be itchy or slightly red, but an infection looks different. If you are looking for bug bite infection relief in Bethnal Green, keep an eye out for these specific “red flag” symptoms:
At Massinghams Chemist, we provide a clean, clinical environment for a private assessment. Our infected insect bite advice at our London E2 pharmacy is rooted in over 130 years of community care.
What to expect during your Pharmacy First consultation:
The key signs and symptoms of an insect bite or sting are:
The red colour of the lump might not be easily visible on black or brown skin but you should be able to feel the lump on the skin.
It is possible to have many bites together in a small area of the skin. You might have a mild allergic reaction at the site of the bite or sting.
The affected area may become more painful and swallow if the site of the bite or sting becomes infected.
The severity of the symptoms depends on the type of bite or sting and the sensitivity of the affected person to the bite or sting.
During the consultation, the pharmacist will assess your condition and if clinically appropriate and you meet the eligibility criteria, you may be offered a suitable treatment. There are several antibiotics that the pharmacist will choose from depending on your condition and medical history
Antibiotic Tablets/Capsules/Oral Solution – For the treatment of infected insect bite(s) and sting(s)
*If you are issued a prescription medicine, you will pay the standard NHS prescription charge unless you’re eligible for free prescriptions.
If treatment for the insect bite or sting is not suitable or you don’t meet the eligibility criteria of the Pharmacy First Service, the pharmacist will either suggest an alternative treatment option or sign-post you to another.
What to learn more about insect bites and stings? Visit the NHS.uk webpage for up-to-date information and advice on insect bites.
As part of the NHS Pharmacy First service, our qualified team at Massinghams Chemist offers free advice and treatment for seven common conditions, including infected insect bites.
Don't let minor ailments slow you down; our London E2 pharmacy provides a quick and professional alternative to busy GP surgeries. By booking a clinical slot, you ensure that you are seen promptly by a healthcare expert
Every appointment takes place in our private consultation room, ensuring your medical needs are discussed in complete confidence.
The Pharmacy First Service is an NHS service designed to offer free advice and treatments to eligible patients for seven common conditions including Infected Insect Bites. Patients can access this service at Massingham Chemist in Bethnal Green. The additional six conditions covered by this service are:
A normal reaction usually peaks within 48 hours and then starts to fade. An infection typically starts to look worse after the first couple of days. If the redness is spreading, the skin feels hot, or you see pus, it is likely infected and you should seek infected insect bite treatment in Bethnal Green immediately.
Yes. Under the NHS Pharmacy First service, our pharmacists can supply oral antibiotics to patients aged 1 year and over if the bite shows clear clinical signs of infection. If you are exempt from prescriptions, the treatment is free; otherwise, the standard NHS levy applies.
If you see a red line tracing away from the bite area (lymphangitis), this is a sign that the infection may be entering your lymphatic system. This requires urgent medical assessment. Please visit us immediately or contact NHS 111.
The number one cause of infection is scratching, which introduces bacteria from your fingernails into the skin. We recommend using a cold compress to dull the itch and taking an antihistamine. Try to keep the bite clean with plain water or a mild antiseptic.
You should seek emergency care if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction (Anaphylaxis), such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat/tongue, or dizziness. Additionally, if an infection is accompanied by a very high fever and confusion, seek urgent medical help.