Insect bites and stings searched every seven seconds on NHS website
The NHS has seen a ‘significant increase’ in people seeking help
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.There has been a “significant” spike in the number of people seeking advice for insect bites, the NHS has said, with people looking for help every seven seconds at a peak.
There were some 261,364 visits to the insect bites and stings page on NHS.uk in June, almost triple the number in June 2022.
NHS England, which runs the website, said there was a particular jump in searches between 12 and 18 June.
It said that during this week there were 91,630 views on the page – the equivalent of about one view every seven seconds.
From 12 to 18 June, many parts of the UK experienced extreme weather from heatwaves to thunderstorms and flash flooding.
Insect bites or stings are not usually serious and get better after a few days, but they can cause infection or serious allergic reactions.
Dame Ruth May, NHS England’s chief nursing officer, said: “We often see a rise in insect bites and stings during the summer months, but the number of people seeking advice from the NHS website has really spiked this year, suggesting there has been a significant increase.
“The NHS website is available 24 hours a day offering advice on a range of conditions including bites and stings. It provides tips on easing swelling and itching, as well as helping people identify more serious symptoms needing urgent medical attention.”
The section of the NHS website offers advice on how to relieve symptoms including bringing down swelling with ice packs and reducing itching with antihistamines as well as pain relief.
People can find out how to identify different bites and stings and get tips on how to remove ticks and stingers.
The page also highlights what people can do if their symptoms may require more help.