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Bites and Stings (General)
If you are experiencing a life threatening emergency please contact Triple Zero (000) immediately
Introduction
Bites and stings from insects, marine creatures, and other animals are common in Australia. Most are minor, but some encounters can create more serious concerns depending on the source. Because of their frequency, these incidents are something many people will experience in day-to-day life or outdoor activities. A general awareness of the risks associated with bites and stings helps people remain calm and informed if they occur.
Signs and Symptoms
Local pain, redness, or swelling
Rash or itching
Nausea or dizziness (in some cases)
Signs of anaphylaxis (swelling, breathing difficulty)
What you should do?
Follow DRSABCD
Apply ice pack to reduce pain and swelling
If stung by bee/wasp, remove sting by scraping sideways (not squeezing)
Monitor closely for signs of allergic reaction
If anaphylaxis develops, use adrenaline injector and call 000
Provide CPR if casualty becomes unresponsive
These fact sheets are provided by Royal Life Saving to support public, workplace, school, and community education. They must be used in their full and current format and are not permitted for commercial purposes unless written approval is obtained. The information is not a substitute for accredited First Aid training, and users are encouraged to complete recognised courses and refresh their skills regularly. While care has been taken to ensure accuracy, Royal Life Saving does not accept responsibility for how the material is applied, and users should always check they are referring to the latest version. Use of this content does not imply endorsement or partnership, and Royal Life Saving may request that use of its materials cease if considered inappropriate or unauthorised.
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