With the increase in temperature through out the summer months, the staff of the Christiaan Barnard Memorial hospital Trauma and Emergency Centre often see patients with various Bites and Stings. Bites and stings from insects are common place, and may result in swelling and redness of the inured area. Of great concern is the potential for the transmission of pathogens (parasites; viruses; bacteria) and the possibility of causing an anaphylactic reaction.
With an estimated over 10 million living species, and representing approximately three fourths of known animal life, they dominate the present day land fauna. They are known as Arthropods, have six legs, and primarily live on land. The orders that contain the greatest number of species are:
With an estimated over 10 million living species, and representing approximately three fourths of known animal life, they dominate the present day land fauna. They are known as Arthropods, have six legs, and primarily live on land. The orders that contain the greatest number of species are:
- Coleoptera (beetles)
- Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths)
- Hymenoptera (ants, bees, wasps)
- Diptera (true flies)
Signs and Symptoms of Insect bites:
Spider bites:
Mosquito bites:
Tick bites:
Wasp & Bee stings: Most people stung by a wasp will have only swelling, itching, and pain at the site of the sting. Those allergic to wasps, however, may also have the following symptoms:
Flea bite: Flea bites exhibit several common symptoms. They are very itchy, and the skin around each bite may become sore or painful. You may experience hives or develop a rash near the site of a bite. Additionally, excessive itching can lead to an infection. Scorpion Sting:
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Immediate management of insect bites:
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Seek immediate medical assistance if:
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- Auerbach, P. S. (2009).Medicine for the outdoors: the essential guide to first aid and medical emergencies(5th ed.). Philadelphia: Mosby/Elsevier
An Injury and Prevention Awareness Project brought to you by Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital Trauma & Emergency Centre.