Most insect and spider bites are harmless, though they can hurt, itch, and swell.

Learning how to prevent bites and stings can prevent discomfort.

To keep your contact with stinging and biting insects to a minimum:

• Don’t provoke insects by making rapid or jerky movements around insect hives. Don’t swat at bees or wasps—slowly move away from them, instead.
• Stay out of wooded, brushy, and tall grassy areas, when possible. If you must walk through them, wear long sleeves and long pants. Tuck pant legs into socks or boots and wear a hat.
• Avoid wearing perfumes, scented deodorants, and floral-patterned or bright clothing, which can attract flying insects.
• Get rid of containers close to your home, such as saucers beneath flowerpots, that hold standing water and can give mosquitoes a breeding ground.

Use Insect Repellant Wisely
Lotions and sprays that repel insects can be useful but must be used appropriately and with the following precautions:

• Buy a repellent that contains active ingredients registered by the EPA to ensure that it will not have any harmful effects on people and the environment.
• Spray repellent on clothes or skin, but not on the face.
• Don’t use repellent on infants under 2 months of age. Repellent used on older children should contain no more than 10 percent DEET. Oil of eucalyptus products shouldn’t be used on children younger than 3. Avoid applying repellent on children’s hands, around the eyes, or on areas with cuts or irritated skin.
• When using repellent and sunscreen at the same time, apply sunscreen first, followed by repellent.
• Wash repellent off with soap and water.

First Aid for Bites and Stings
To treat insect bites:

• Apply a topical antihistamine or take an oral antihistamine to reduce itching.
• Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain.
• Apply a cold pack to reduce swelling.

People who have a serious allergy to insect bites or stings should carry an emergency epinephrine kit with them at all times and wear a medical ID bracelet. Friends and family should be taught how to administer the hypodermic needle the kit contains if it becomes necessary.

For more information, visit the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov and search for “bug bites.”

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