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Insect Bite or Sting - Adults

Infants (Ages 0–2)Children (Ages 3–17)Adults (Ages 18–74)Seniors (Ages 75 and Older)

What it is

An insect bite or sting occurs when an insect (such as a tick, mosquito, wasp, or bee) pierces the skin and injects venom or saliva. It can cause pain, redness, swelling, or itching. Most bites and stings are harmless, but some can transmit disease.

What you can do at home

What to do
  • If the bite is caused by a black widow spider, call the Poison Control Centre: 1- 800- 463- 5060.

Removing a stinger 

  • Remove the stinger promptly by gently scraping the skin. 
  • Wash the area with soap and water. 

Tick bites 

  • Using tweezers, grasp the tick close to the skin and pull gently. 
  • Avoid crushing the tick during removal. 
  • Place the tick in a small, sealed container. Record the date, time, and location of the bite. 
  • Wash the area with soap and water. 

Call Info-Santé 811, option 1, to report the tick bite. 

Relieving pain 

  • Apply ice for 10 minutes every 30 minutes for 4 hours. Wrap the ice in a cloth to prevent skin damage. 
  • If swelling is present, remove jewelry, rings, or bracelets near the bite or sting. 
  • Elevate the affected arm or leg above heart level. 
  • Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). If in doubt, consult a pharmacist. 

Important: Ibuprofen is contraindicated for children under 6 months of age.  

Relieving itching 

  • Avoid scratching, even if the area is itchy. 
  • Apply a cold washcloth or a paste made of equal parts water and baking soda. Leave it on for a few seconds while applying gentle pressure. 
  • Ask a pharmacist whether over-the-counter medications or creams may help. 
     

When to seek medical attention

If you have any of these signs:
  • A tick cannot be removed completely. 
  • Pain, itching, or swelling persists despite following these recommendations. 
  • The skin around the bite or sting becomes red, swollen, warm, or develops pus (yellow-green fluid). 

When to go to the hospital right away

A fever after a recent trip

(within the past 3 months) to a country where malaria is a risk  Government of Canada. 

The skin around the bite or sting turns black.
A severe allergic reaction to an insect bite or sting has occurred in the past.
Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction are present (rash, itchy skin, or swelling of the lips, tongue, or face), along with at least one of the following: 

Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction are present (rash, itchy skin, or swelling of the lips, tongue, or face), along with at least one of the following: 

  • high-pitched breathing sounds (stridor) or difficulty breathing; 
  • bluish lips or fingers; 
  • weakness, dizziness, or loss of consciousness (fainting); 
  • rapid heartbeat; 
  • abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea (loose, watery stools).
A wasp, hornet, or bumblebee sting occurs inside the mouth.
A sting occurs near the eye and is accompanied by pain or difficulty seeing.
Multiple insect bites or stings occur at the same time.
Following a tick bite, any of the following develop: 
  • headache; 
  • stiff neck; 
  • fever; 
  • sensitivity to light; 
  • vomiting; 
  • weakness; 
  • severe pain; 
  • chest pain; 
  • difficulty breathing; 
  • loss of consciousness (fainting); 
  • rapid heartbeat; 
  • sudden numbness. 

Need help?

Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.  

Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.  

Make an appointment on Clic Santé if your child needs a vaccination. 

Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.  

If you do not have a family doctor, go to https://gap.soinsvirtuels.gouv.qc.ca/en or call 811, Option 3.  

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