Latest news with #WellPharmacy
Scotsman
3 days ago
- General
- Scotsman
How to treat summer bug bites and stings
An estimated 10 people die every year after being stung by a bee or a wasp 🐝 Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Warm temperatures across the UK have mean more of us are enjoying time outside. This increases our risk of being bitten or stung by an insect, which can be dangerous. It's estimated around 10 people a year die after being stung by a bee or a wasp. George Sandhu, Deputy Superintendent at Well Pharmacy advises on how to treat common bug bites and stings. With the warm weather this spring more of us are spending time outdoors, putting us at risk of being bitten or stung by a summer bug. George Sandhu, Deputy Superintendent at Well Pharmacy, is urging people to be on their guard after encounters with insects, the leading pharmacist has issued guidance on what to do if you get stung and when to call 999. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Around 10 people a year die in the UK due to bee and wasp stings after going into anaphylactic shock. Experts from Well Pharmacy, want to help members of the public know how to tell the difference between a variety of bites and stings so they can best treat the wound. Here is everything you need to know about how to treat common bug bites and stings this summer and when to seek medical attention. Around 10 people die in the UK every year from bee and wasp stings. | THOMAS KIENZLE/AFP /AFP via Getty Images How do you know you've been bitten or stung? Mr Sandhu said: 'Symptoms of an insect bite or sting will usually begin with a swollen lump on the skin which can be red in colour. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'It is essential to be vigilant to any new bite or sting and it is advised that patients seek medical attention if they are unsure whether or not they have been stung. This is because bites and stings, while often not serious, can trigger a severe allergic reaction, which in some cases can prove fatal. 'Other bites, which might not be fatal, can also lead to diseases like malaria, Lyme disease or scabies.' Under the Pharmacy First scheme, patients can seek advice and treatment about infected insect bites and stings from a pharmacist, without the need to speak to a GP. But, Mr Sandhu stresses that anyone suffering immediate shortness of breath after contact with an insect must call 999. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad How to treat a wasp or hornet sting? A wasp or hornet sting will usually leave a small mark where the stinger entered the skin and at times can leave a throbbing in the affected area. The sting causes pain, redness and swelling for a few hours. Some people may experience a mild allergic reaction that lasts up to seven days. In worst cases, a sting can leave the patient suffering anaphylaxis, which leads to severe breathing difficulties and can even become fatal. Other symptoms include dizziness and a swollen face or mouth and if you or someone in your company is experiencing these symptoms then dial 999 for an ambulance right away. Unlike bees, wasps and hornets do not leave their sting in the wound, so the chances of infection are relatively rare, but it is essential to ensure the affected area is cleaned. Placing an ice pack wrapped in a cloth or a clean cloth soaked in cold water on the sting for around 20 minutes will help to reduce swelling and alleviate the pain. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad It is advised to keep the affected area raised, if possible, and over-the-counter drugs like paracetamol or ibuprofen will help with any associated pain. Antihistamines and hydrocortisone cream can also help to relive itching and reduce swelling. How to treat bee stings? A bee sting can feel similar to a wasp sting with one major difference - the stinger will usually be left in the wound. Unlike wasps and hornets, bees possess a single stinger and die once they have used it. While a bee sting is said to be milder than that of a wasp or hornet, you should expect to experience similar symptoms, with some experiencing swelling for a few hours and may have an allergic reaction lasting for up to seven days. As with other stings, if you or someone in your company experiences breathing difficulties, dizziness or a swollen face then dial 999 for an ambulance. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad You can remove a bee sting by brushing or scraping the stinger sideways with a finger or edge of a bank card. It is recommended not to use tweezers to attempt to remove a bee sting because it could end up forcing more poison into the bloodstream. Once the stinger has been successfully removed, it is recommended to clean the wound with soap and cool water to reduce the risk of infection. How to treat mosquito bites? Mosquito bites are usually small, raised and itchy, they do little damage if a person is bitten in the UK, however, a bite from a mosquito abroad could be a much more serious issue and must be monitored. The bite develops into small red lumps on the skin that can become fluid-filled blisters. You may have the urge to scratch the itch from the bite, but this is highly discouraged. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad To treat a mosquito bite, wash the bite and surrounding area with soap and cool water and use an ice pack for around 10 minutes to reduce swelling and relieve itching. You can also apply over-the-counter antihistamine tablets or cream to help with the itching. How to treat tick bites? The tick is a small, black insect that burrows its head into the skin and can cause serious disease in both humans and animals. Ticks will bite and while this is not painful, the potential after-effects can be debilitating. If you enjoy hiking, you are advised to keep skin covered in affected areas of the UK to protect yourself. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Symptoms of a tick bite include a small red lump on the skin which can swell or blister and becomes very itchy, however, the most serious consequence of a tick bite is Lyme disease. A bullseye style rash is one of the biggest signs a patient may have contracted Lyme disease, and they are advised to seek medical help as soon as able. You should see your GP if you develop a pink or red rash, have a temperature of 38C or above, suffer flu-like symptoms, headache or joint pain, or have swollen lymph nodes. The best way to remove a tick is by using a tick removal device – available in many pharmacies – or fine-toothed tweezers. Gently grip the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull steadily away, without crushing it. Wash the skin with soap and water and apply antiseptic cream to the affected area. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The NHS advises patients against using unorthodox methods of tick removal – these include using a cigarette end, match head, alcohol or petroleum jelly . Once the tick is removed, patients are advised to keep an eye on the area. There is no need to speak to a doctor if no further symptoms follow. How to treat horsefly bites? The horsefly or notch-horned cleg-fly has a painful bite that causes a large and raised red lump, which may bleed and often becomes infected. The insect is often found around streams, rivers or marshes, leaving its mark on many who enjoy a summer stroll. It is possible that the bite could develop into a larger raised rash known as hives and patients could experience dizziness or weakness. Others who have been on the receiving end of a horsefly bite have reported the area becoming puffy and swollen. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Horsefly bites often take more than a week to heal and if continually touched can become infected, so it is recommended patients do their best to avoid scratching. With a horsefly bite likely to cause pain and itchiness for a week, the main advice is to avoid scratching and keep a close eye on it to avoid infection. Soap and water, an ice pack, keeping the area raised and over-the-counter painkillers and antihistamine tablets and creams will all help ease the pain and itching. If the area does become infected and filled with pus, head to your local pharmacy to discuss the best option for treatment. How to treat midge bites? Midges are commonly found in Scotland over the summer, as they love the warm, damp, Scottish climate. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The bite from a midge is usually very small and slightly raised, it can cause a small, red lump that can become quite itchy. In rarer cases, a midge bite can cause patients to develop fluid-filled blisters. To treat a midge bite, keep the area clean, apply an ice pack, keeping over-the-counter painkillers and antihistamines can ease the pain and itching. If you believe the area has become infected, speak to your local pharmacist for advice. How to treat mite bites? While a bite from a mite isn't life-threatening, it can cause a condition called scabies to develop. Often, a mite can bite someone on exposed skin when they are holding their dog or cat. Scabies is a highly infectious condition that can be quickly passed from person-to-person, but it can take up to eight weeks for the rash to appear. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad It is highly infections, with skin-to-skin contact lead to others developing the condition. People sharing the same home will often get scabies if just one person is infected. Scabies is when tiny mites lay eggs under the skin, which appear as lines with a dot at the end. A rash can then appear anywhere on the body, but it is most common between the fingers. The rash is then likely to spread across the rest of the body in the form of tiny red spots. Treatment for a mite bite includes using soap and water to keep the area clean, take painkillers and antihistamines for relief and itching, and keep an eye on the wound. If scabies is suspected, seek advice from your local pharmacist who can supply a cream or lotion to be applied to the whole body, including the scalp and face. The treatment will need to be applied seven days later too. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Everyone in an infected household must take the treatment, and people must not have close or sexual contact until the treatment is concluded. Wash all bedding and clothing on at least 60C and then in a hot tumble-dryer afterwards. Clothes than cannot be washed should be sealed in a plastic bag for at least three days. It is recommended to head to your local pharmacy for advice with mite bites and scabies where a cream or lotion will be offered. How to treat flea bites? Flea bites are usually found in groups below the knee, the reason for this is that fleas will usually transfer from cats or dogs. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad It is usually around the ankle that a flea bite is most commonly found on a human, however there is also a possibility that a person might experience a bite on the forearm. This can be caused by holding their cat or dogs in their arms and the flea opting to nibble on exposed skin. To treat a flea bite keep the area clean, apply an ice pack, keeping over-the-counter painkillers and antihistamines can ease the pain and itching. How to treat a false widow bite? While it is uncommon to be bitten by a spider in the UK- compared to places like Australia - it can still lead to a serious outcome. UK spiders like the false widow can give a nasty bite to those unlucky enough to be on the wrong end of one. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad A bite from a spider leaves small puncture marks on the skin that can cause swelling and some redness. Some spider bites can also cause sickness, sweating and dizziness as well as causing a severe allergic reaction in the rarest of cases. If you or someone you're with experiences a severe allergic reaction following a spider bite then immediately seek medical help. The standard treatment advice for spider bites is to keep the area clean by using soap and water, apply an ice pack. Over-the-counter painkillers and antihistamines can ease the pain and itching. Crucially, it is important to monitor the bite for signs of infection and seek medical advice from your local pharmacist if you are concerned, feel unwell or have a raised temperature. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad
North Wales Live
4 days ago
- Health
- North Wales Live
How to treat sting 'like being stabbed by red-hot needle' after sightings
A pharmacist has advised how to treat a sting from an Asian hornet amid a rise in sightings in the UK. So far this year, three nests found and there have been 24 sightings of the invasive yellow-legged hornet, which pose a major threat to many native UK insects, including honey bees. An Asian hornet - believed to have arrived in France on a shipment from China in 2004 - can consume 50 honey bees a day with a swarm able to kill off a hive of more than 30,000 bees. In 2024 there were 71 sightings and 24 hives found - and while experts do not believe there is an established UK population yet, a DEFRA eradication programme continues this year. The warning from Well Pharmacy comes as Brits spend more time outdoors during an unseasonal 23C hot spell this week - considerably warmer than the 14C monthly average. The Asian hornet is said to possess one of the most unpleasant stings known to man, often compared to being stabbed by a red-hot needle. Well Pharmacy wants the public to be aware of how they can treat themselves or others who may be unfortunate enough to suffer an Asian hornet sting. Anyone suffering immediate shortness of breath after contact with an Asian hornet or any insect must call 999, while Brits worried about bug bites and stings can go direct to their local pharmacy. Under the Pharmacy First scheme, in England, patients can seek advice and treatment about infected insect bites and stings from a pharmacist, without the need to speak to a GP. The hornet, which has been mainly sighted in Kent with a couple of other sightings in Hampshire and a solitary sighting in Shropshire can potentially wreak havoc on the UK's ecosystem. It is important Brits are able to tell the difference between harmless insect bites and life-threatening stings. The invasive species have slight differences in appearance to wasps and other hornets - most prominently, the Asian hornet has yellow legs. Asian hornets are generally seen as more aggressive than wasps unlike their European cousin and will potentially sting unprovoked. If you are stung by an Asian hornet, then Well Pharmacy's George Sandhu has the following advice which could help alleviate the pain. 1. Clean with soap and water Mr Sandhu says: 'A hornet sting will be much more painful than normal stings, there is no stinger left behind, meaning there is nothing to be removed. Instead head for the sink and use soap and cool water to clean the wound, no matter how small.' 2. Apply ice Mr Sandhu says: 'Once the wound has been cleaned, head to the freezer to get ice because cooling the body's temperature will slow the spread of venom. The coolness of the ice will also provide a soothing relief to the throbbing pain which comes from an Asian hornet sting.' 3. Monitor symptoms Mr Sandhu urges anyone who has been stung to keep monitoring the wound [2] and their condition - or make sure someone is around to keep a close eye on them. Mr Sandhu says: 'Some people who are stung by an Asian hornet will find themselves having an allergic reaction following the incident. 'It is important to consult a medical professional immediately if you believe you've had an allergic reaction to an Asian hornet sting.' 4. Get emergency help Mr Sandhu says: 'If you can feel your throat getting tight or you are having trouble breathing then it is possible that you may go into anaphylactic shock. It is crucial to ensure that people around you are aware of this so they can ring 999 and get the proper help for you. If you're with someone who is experiencing these symptoms then stay calm and call an ambulance.' 5. Be one step ahead Mr Sandhu said: 'Patients may be aware that they are allergic to bee or wasp stings and if this is the case then they should make sure to always have a bee sting kit on their person. Having this kit available will allow for immediate treatment which can help save their lives should they be stung by a bee, wasp or Asian hornet. 'The kits are compact and don't take up too much space and should be a part of someone's checklist whenever they suspect they may experience insects they are allergic to.' 6. Pharmacy First Mr Sandhu added: 'It is also important to remember that pharmacists can offer expert advice on any insect bites or stings through the Pharmacy First scheme. If you are looking for medical advice and treatment, then head to your local Well Pharmacy where a pharmacist can discuss options to treat the issue. 'Many patients have the option to purchase antihistamines, steroid creams and painkillers over the counter at their local pharmacy to enable immediate treatment. Other treatments can also be offered all without the need for a doctor's appointment due to the Pharmacy First scheme.' He adds: 'All insect stings and bites can be sore initially however there are a variety of treatments which can aid patients. Many patients find that creams are helpful in soothing the area which has been stung whilst others also use soap and water to ensure that the wound is clean. 'Asian hornets possess a particularly strong sting which can be very unpleasant however if patients follow the above guidance they will be able to soothe the sting which should heal in a few days.'
Wales Online
4 days ago
- Health
- Wales Online
How to treat sting 'like being stabbed by red-hot needle' after sightings
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info A pharmacist has advised how to treat a sting from an Asian hornet amid a rise in sightings in the UK. So far this year, three nests found and there have been 24 sightings of the invasive yellow-legged hornet, which pose a major threat to many native UK insects, including honey bees. An Asian hornet - believed to have arrived in France on a shipment from China in 2004 - can consume 50 honey bees a day with a swarm able to kill off a hive of more than 30,000 bees. In 2024 there were 71 sightings and 24 hives found - and while experts do not believe there is an established UK population yet, a DEFRA eradication programme continues this year. The warning from Well Pharmacy comes as Brits spend more time outdoors during an unseasonal 23C hot spell this week - considerably warmer than the 14C monthly average. The Asian hornet is said to possess one of the most unpleasant stings known to man, often compared to being stabbed by a red-hot needle. Well Pharmacy wants the public to be aware of how they can treat themselves or others who may be unfortunate enough to suffer an Asian hornet sting. Anyone suffering immediate shortness of breath after contact with an Asian hornet or any insect must call 999, while Brits worried about bug bites and stings can go direct to their local pharmacy. Under the Pharmacy First scheme, in England, patients can seek advice and treatment about infected insect bites and stings from a pharmacist, without the need to speak to a GP. The hornet, which has been mainly sighted in Kent with a couple of other sightings in Hampshire and a solitary sighting in Shropshire can potentially wreak havoc on the UK's ecosystem. It is important Brits are able to tell the difference between harmless insect bites and life-threatening stings. The invasive species have slight differences in appearance to wasps and other hornets - most prominently, the Asian hornet has yellow legs. Asian hornets are generally seen as more aggressive than wasps unlike their European cousin and will potentially sting unprovoked. If you are stung by an Asian hornet, then Well Pharmacy's George Sandhu has the following advice which could help alleviate the pain. 1. Clean with soap and water Mr Sandhu says: 'A hornet sting will be much more painful than normal stings, there is no stinger left behind, meaning there is nothing to be removed. Instead head for the sink and use soap and cool water to clean the wound, no matter how small.' 2. Apply ice Mr Sandhu says: 'Once the wound has been cleaned, head to the freezer to get ice because cooling the body's temperature will slow the spread of venom. The coolness of the ice will also provide a soothing relief to the throbbing pain which comes from an Asian hornet sting.' 3. Monitor symptoms Mr Sandhu urges anyone who has been stung to keep monitoring the wound [2] and their condition - or make sure someone is around to keep a close eye on them. Mr Sandhu says: 'Some people who are stung by an Asian hornet will find themselves having an allergic reaction following the incident. 'It is important to consult a medical professional immediately if you believe you've had an allergic reaction to an Asian hornet sting.' 4. Get emergency help Mr Sandhu says: 'If you can feel your throat getting tight or you are having trouble breathing then it is possible that you may go into anaphylactic shock. It is crucial to ensure that people around you are aware of this so they can ring 999 and get the proper help for you. If you're with someone who is experiencing these symptoms then stay calm and call an ambulance.' 5. Be one step ahead Mr Sandhu said: 'Patients may be aware that they are allergic to bee or wasp stings and if this is the case then they should make sure to always have a bee sting kit on their person. Having this kit available will allow for immediate treatment which can help save their lives should they be stung by a bee, wasp or Asian hornet. 'The kits are compact and don't take up too much space and should be a part of someone's checklist whenever they suspect they may experience insects they are allergic to.' 6. Pharmacy First Mr Sandhu added: 'It is also important to remember that pharmacists can offer expert advice on any insect bites or stings through the Pharmacy First scheme. If you are looking for medical advice and treatment, then head to your local Well Pharmacy where a pharmacist can discuss options to treat the issue. 'Many patients have the option to purchase antihistamines, steroid creams and painkillers over the counter at their local pharmacy to enable immediate treatment. Other treatments can also be offered all without the need for a doctor's appointment due to the Pharmacy First scheme.' He adds: 'All insect stings and bites can be sore initially however there are a variety of treatments which can aid patients. Many patients find that creams are helpful in soothing the area which has been stung whilst others also use soap and water to ensure that the wound is clean. 'Asian hornets possess a particularly strong sting which can be very unpleasant however if patients follow the above guidance they will be able to soothe the sting which should heal in a few days.'
Scotsman
27-05-2025
- Health
- Scotsman
How to treat an Asian hornet sting after rise in sightings
This is how you treat an Asian hornet sting according to a leading pharmacist 🐝 Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... There has been a rise in confirmed sightings of Asian hornets across the UK. The Asian hornet is said to possess one of the most unpleasant stings known to man. Well Pharmacy's George Sandhu advises on how to treat a sting from an Asian hornet. There have been a rise in Asian hornet sightings across the UK this year, with a leading pharmacist issuing guidance on what to do if you get stung. Asian hornets are believed to have arrived in France on a shipment from China in 2004. They are an invasive species which pose a significant threat to many of the UK's native insects, including honey bees. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad So far this year, there have been 13 confirmed sightings of the invasive yellow-legged hornet. In 2024, there were 71 sightings and 24 hives found and while experts do not believe there is an established UK population yet, a DEFRA eradication programme continues this year. The Asian hornet is said to possess one of the most unpleasant stings known to man, often compared to being stabbed by a red-hot needle. How to treat an Asian hornet sting after a rise in sightings across the UK. | MIGUEL RIOPA/AFP via Getty Images Well Pharmacy wants the public to be aware of how they can treat themselves or others who may be unfortunate enough to suffer an Asian hornet sting. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Under the Pharmacy First scheme, patients can seek advice and treatment about infected insect bites and stings from a pharmacist, without the need to speak to a GP. Anyone suffering immediate shortness of breath after contact with an Asian hornet or any insect must call 999, while Brits worried about bug bites and stings can go direct to their local pharmacy. What does an Asian hornet look like? The invasive species have slight differences in appearance to wasps and other hornets - most prominently, the Asian hornet has yellow legs. Asian hornets are generally seen as more aggressive than wasps unlike their European cousin and will potentially sting unprovoked. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Where have Asian hornets been sighted? Asian hornets, have mainly been sighted in Kent with a couple of other sightings in Hampshire and a solitary sighting in Shropshire. How to treat an Asian hornet sting If you are stung by an Asian hornet, then Well Pharmacy's George Sandhu has the following advice which could help alleviate the pain. Clean with soap and water A hornet sting is much more painful than normal stings as there is no stinger left behind and nothing to be removed. Mr Sandhu explains: 'Instead head for the sink and use soap and cool water to clean the wound, no matter how small.' Apply ice Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad After cleaning the wound, applying ice will cool the body's temperature and slow the spread of the venom. Mr Sandhu says: 'The coolness of the ice will also provide a soothing relief to the throbbing pain which comes from an Asian hornet sting.' Monitor symptoms If someone has been stung you should keep monitoring the wound and their condition - or make sure someone is around to keep a close eye on them. Mr Sandhu says: 'Some people who are stung by an Asian hornet will find themselves having an allergic reaction following the incident. It is important to consult a medical professional immediately if you believe you've had an allergic reaction to an Asian hornet sting.' Get emergency help It's important to get emergency help if you feel your throat getting tight or are having trouble breathing. Mr Sandhu says: 'It is possible that you may go into anaphylactic shock. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'It is crucial to ensure that people around you are aware of this so they can ring 999 and get the proper help for you. 'If you're with someone who is experiencing these symptoms then stay calm and call an ambulance.' Be one step ahead If you are aware that you are allergic to bee or wasp stings, then make sure you have your bee sting kit on hand. Mr Sandhu said: 'Having this kit available will allow for immediate treatment which can help save their lives should they be stung by a bee, wasp or Asian hornet. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'The kits are compact and don't take up too much space and should be a part of someone's checklist whenever they suspect they may experience insects they are allergic to.' Pharmacy First Under the Pharmacy First scheme, patients can seek advice and treatment about infected insect bites and stings from a pharmacist, without the need to speak to a GP. Mr Sandhu said: 'It is also important to remember that pharmacists can offer expert advice on any insect bites or stings through the Pharmacy First scheme. 'If you are looking for medical advice and treatment, then head to your local Well Pharmacy where a pharmacist can discuss options to treat the issue. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Many patients have the option to purchase antihistamines, steroid creams and painkillers over the counter at their local pharmacy to enable immediate treatment. 'Other treatments can also be offered all without the need for a doctor's appointment due to the Pharmacy First scheme.' He adds: 'All insect stings and bites can be sore initially however there are a variety of treatments which can aid patients. 'Many patients find that creams are helpful in soothing the area which has been stung whilst others also use soap and water to ensure that the wound is clean. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Asian hornets possess a particularly strong sting which can be very unpleasant however if patients follow the above guidance they will be able to soothe the sting which should heal in a few days.' If you have a health story to share with us, we'd love to hear from you. You can now send your stories to us online via YourWorld at It's free to use and, once checked, your story will appear on our website and, space allowing, in our newspapers.
Scotsman
27-05-2025
- Health
- Scotsman
How to treat an Asian hornet sting after rise in sightings
This is how you treat an Asian hornet sting according to a leading pharmacist 🐝 Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... There has been a rise in confirmed sightings of Asian hornets across the UK. The Asian hornet is said to possess one of the most unpleasant stings known to man. Well Pharmacy's George Sandhu advises on how to treat a sting from an Asian hornet. There have been a rise in Asian hornet sightings across the UK this year, with a leading pharmacist issuing guidance on what to do if you get stung. Asian hornets are believed to have arrived in France on a shipment from China in 2004. They are an invasive species which pose a significant threat to many of the UK's native insects, including honey bees. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad So far this year, there have been 13 confirmed sightings of the invasive yellow-legged hornet. In 2024, there were 71 sightings and 24 hives found and while experts do not believe there is an established UK population yet, a DEFRA eradication programme continues this year. The Asian hornet is said to possess one of the most unpleasant stings known to man, often compared to being stabbed by a red-hot needle. How to treat an Asian hornet sting after a rise in sightings across the UK. | MIGUEL RIOPA/AFP via Getty Images Well Pharmacy wants the public to be aware of how they can treat themselves or others who may be unfortunate enough to suffer an Asian hornet sting. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Under the Pharmacy First scheme, patients can seek advice and treatment about infected insect bites and stings from a pharmacist, without the need to speak to a GP. Anyone suffering immediate shortness of breath after contact with an Asian hornet or any insect must call 999, while Brits worried about bug bites and stings can go direct to their local pharmacy. What does an Asian hornet look like? The invasive species have slight differences in appearance to wasps and other hornets - most prominently, the Asian hornet has yellow legs. Asian hornets are generally seen as more aggressive than wasps unlike their European cousin and will potentially sting unprovoked. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Where have Asian hornets been sighted? Asian hornets, have mainly been sighted in Kent with a couple of other sightings in Hampshire and a solitary sighting in Shropshire. How to treat an Asian hornet sting If you are stung by an Asian hornet, then Well Pharmacy's George Sandhu has the following advice which could help alleviate the pain. Clean with soap and water A hornet sting is much more painful than normal stings as there is no stinger left behind and nothing to be removed. Mr Sandhu explains: 'Instead head for the sink and use soap and cool water to clean the wound, no matter how small.' Apply ice Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad After cleaning the wound, applying ice will cool the body's temperature and slow the spread of the venom. Mr Sandhu says: 'The coolness of the ice will also provide a soothing relief to the throbbing pain which comes from an Asian hornet sting.' Monitor symptoms If someone has been stung you should keep monitoring the wound and their condition - or make sure someone is around to keep a close eye on them. Mr Sandhu says: 'Some people who are stung by an Asian hornet will find themselves having an allergic reaction following the incident. It is important to consult a medical professional immediately if you believe you've had an allergic reaction to an Asian hornet sting.' Get emergency help It's important to get emergency help if you feel your throat getting tight or are having trouble breathing. Mr Sandhu says: 'It is possible that you may go into anaphylactic shock. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'It is crucial to ensure that people around you are aware of this so they can ring 999 and get the proper help for you. 'If you're with someone who is experiencing these symptoms then stay calm and call an ambulance.' Be one step ahead If you are aware that you are allergic to bee or wasp stings, then make sure you have your bee sting kit on hand. Mr Sandhu said: 'Having this kit available will allow for immediate treatment which can help save their lives should they be stung by a bee, wasp or Asian hornet. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'The kits are compact and don't take up too much space and should be a part of someone's checklist whenever they suspect they may experience insects they are allergic to.' Pharmacy First Under the Pharmacy First scheme, patients can seek advice and treatment about infected insect bites and stings from a pharmacist, without the need to speak to a GP. Mr Sandhu said: 'It is also important to remember that pharmacists can offer expert advice on any insect bites or stings through the Pharmacy First scheme. 'If you are looking for medical advice and treatment, then head to your local Well Pharmacy where a pharmacist can discuss options to treat the issue. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Many patients have the option to purchase antihistamines, steroid creams and painkillers over the counter at their local pharmacy to enable immediate treatment. 'Other treatments can also be offered all without the need for a doctor's appointment due to the Pharmacy First scheme.' He adds: 'All insect stings and bites can be sore initially however there are a variety of treatments which can aid patients. 'Many patients find that creams are helpful in soothing the area which has been stung whilst others also use soap and water to ensure that the wound is clean. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Asian hornets possess a particularly strong sting which can be very unpleasant however if patients follow the above guidance they will be able to soothe the sting which should heal in a few days.'
