NHS Pharmacy First – Insect Bites & Stings Treatment at Neils Pharmacy

Insect Bites & Stings – Pharmacy First Service

Insect bites and stings are common and can cause redness, swelling, itching, and discomfort. In some cases, symptoms may become painful or irritated and can occasionally lead to infection.

🐝 Under the NHS Pharmacy First service, eligible patients can receive assessment and treatment for uncomplicated insect bites and stings directly from a pharmacist, without needing to see a GP.

Who Can Use This Service?

You may be eligible for treatment at Neils Pharmacy if:

✅ You are aged 1 year or over

✅ You have an uncomplicated insect bite or sting

✅ Symptoms are localised (redness, swelling, itching, or mild pain)

✅ There are no signs of severe infection or serious allergic reaction

🩺 Our pharmacist will carry out a private consultation to confirm whether this service is appropriate.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

🔴 Redness and swelling around the bite or sting

😖 Itching or irritation

🔥 Localised pain or tenderness

💧 A small blister, raised area, or spot at the site

Most insect bites and stings improve within a few days. Treatment can help reduce discomfort and minimise the risk of complications.

How We Can Help

If you are eligible, our pharmacist may:

🩺 Carry out a structured clinical assessment

💊 Supply treatment where clinically appropriate (e.g. topical or oral medicines)

💡 Provide advice on itch relief, swelling, and pain management

🚫 Provide guidance on reducing infection risk

📤 Refer you to a GP or urgent care service if required

🔒 All consultations are confidential and take place in a private consultation room.

When You Should NOT Use This Service

You should seek urgent medical advice (or attend A&E) if:

❌ You have signs of a severe allergic reaction (e.g. difficulty breathing, facial swelling, collapse)

❌ The bite or sting is near the eyes, mouth, tongue, or throat

❌ There are signs of severe infection (rapidly spreading redness, pus, fever)

❌ You feel systemically unwell or symptoms are rapidly worsening

If required, our pharmacist will ensure you are safely referred to the appropriate healthcare service.

Appointments & Cost

📱 Appointments are recommended, though walk-ins may be available

⏱️ Consultations are quick and convenient

💙 This service is FREE on the NHS for eligible patients

👉 Book an insect bites & stings consultation

Other NHS Pharmacy First Services Available

Neils Pharmacy also offers assessment and treatment for other conditions under the NHS Pharmacy First service:

🩺 Shingles

🩺 Sinusitis

🩺 Sore throat

🩺 Ear infection (acute otitis media)

🩺 Impetigo

🩺 Uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI)

Why Choose Neils Pharmacy?

✔️ NHS-approved Pharmacy First provider

✔️ No GP appointment required (if eligible)

✔️ Expert pharmacist-led assessment

✔️ Fast access to treatment and advice

✔️ Trusted local pharmacy in Prescot