Insect sting: Bee, wasp and hornet stings can be painful, but are rarely dangerous. If you can see the sting in the skin, brush or scrape it off sideways using a clean fingernail or credit card. Do not use tweezers as they force the poison into the skin. If the sting occurs in the mouth, suck ice cubes or drink cold water and seek medical advice.

Nettle rash: Dab the rash with cotton wool soaked in calamine or place a cold compress until pain is relieved.

Animal bite: Wash the bite in soap and warm water. Pat dry. If bleeding is severe apply direct pressure to the wound and lift the area above the heart. Cover wound with a sterile pad and bandage. Severe bites might need stitches. Bites from animals outside the UK will require antirabies injections. See also “Is a tetanus injection required?”.

Tick bite: Ticks are found in grass and woodland and attach themselves to human beings and animals. They suck blood and swell so that they are clearly visible. Because they carry disease, they should be removed as soon as possible using tweezers. Grab the tick’s head and lever it out, preferably without breaking it. Take the tick to casualty for analysis.

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