NHS Pharmacy First
Infected insect bites treatment in Clapham
Most insect bites are harmless and settle within a few days. Sometimes a bite becomes infected. Our pharmacist can check it and, if needed, give you treatment.
Who we can treatAdults and children aged 1 and over
AppointmentWalk in or book ahead
GP referralNot needed
Common symptoms
- Redness or swelling that is spreading around the bite
- The area feeling hot, painful or tender
- Pus or fluid coming from the bite
- Feeling generally unwell
How we can help
- A check of the bite and the surrounding skin
- Advice on caring for the bite
- Antibiotics, if the bite is infected
The pharmacist will decide what is right for you. Not everyone needs medicine, and some people may need to see a GP instead.
Things you can try at home
- Wash the area with soap and water
- Hold a cold compress on the bite for at least 10 minutes
- Try not to scratch, to lower the chance of infection
- Use antihistamines or a mild steroid cream for itching, if suitable
Get urgent help if
- Swelling of the lips, mouth or throat, or difficulty breathing – call 999
- A fast heartbeat, feeling faint or confused – call 999
- Redness spreading quickly, or red streaks spreading from the bite
- A high temperature or feeling very unwell
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 in an emergency.
Other conditions we treat
Visiting us
148 Clapham High Street, SW4 7UH. Mon–Fri 9am–6pm, Sat 9am–5pm. Step-free access and a private consultation room.
148 Clapham High Street, SW4 7UH. Mon–Fri 9am–6pm, Sat 9am–5pm. Step-free access and a private consultation room.
Think you have an infected insect bite?
Walk in during opening hours or book a time – our pharmacist will see you in private.