Infected Insect Bites

Bites can become infected when bacteria, often Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus, enter through broken skin. Scratching the bite increases the risk of infection by damaging the skin barrier. Poor hygiene or a weakened immune system can also make infection more likely.

The common signs include redness, swelling, warmth, tenderness, and pus at the bite site. You may also experience itching, pain, or the area becoming hard to the touch. In more severe cases, fever or swollen glands can occur, which requires medical attention.

If the area around the bite becomes increasingly red, hot, painful, or starts producing yellow or green discharge, it may be infected. The skin might also feel firm or tight, and the redness may spread outward. If you notice these symptoms, it’s best to seek treatment.

An irritated bite usually causes mild redness and itching that fades within a few days. An infected wound, on the other hand, tends to worsen over time, becoming more swollen, painful, or oozing. Persistent or spreading redness is a strong indicator of infection.

Mild infections may sometimes improve with good hygiene and warm compresses, but most require medical attention. If symptoms worsen or don’t improve within a few days, antibiotics such as Flucloxacillin or Clarithromycin may be needed. It’s always safer to have an infection properly assessed by a healthcare professional.

Without treatment, an infection can worsen and spread to surrounding tissue, leading to cellulitis. In rare cases, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause serious complications. Early antibiotic treatment helps prevent these risks and speeds up recovery.

Although uncommon, severe infections from insect bites can lead to sepsis if bacteria spread throughout the body. The signs include fever, confusion, rapid breathing, and extreme pain or swelling. You should seek urgent medical help if you experience these symptoms after a bite.

With proper antibiotic treatment, most infected bites heal within 7-10 days. More severe infections may take longer, especially if swelling or pus is present. Keeping the area clean and avoiding scratching can help speed up recovery.

The treatment often involves a short course of antibiotics such as Flucloxacillin, Clarithromycin, or Erythromycin to clear the infection. You may also be advised to keep the area clean and apply warm compresses. Over-the-counter pain relief can help reduce discomfort while healing.

Avoid scratching bites and wash them gently with soap and water as soon as possible. Applying an antiseptic cream can help prevent bacteria from entering the wound. If you’re prone to infections, covering the area with a clean dressing may offer extra protection.

A serious bite may cause rapid swelling, spreading redness, severe pain, or systemic symptoms like fever. If the infection worsens despite home care or you feel generally unwell, seek medical advice immediately. Early treatment helps prevent complications.