Pharmacy First treatment for infected insect bites
Most insect bites and stings improve without treatment, but sometimes the skin around a bite can become infected. Through NHS Pharmacy First in England, eligible patients can speak directly to a participating pharmacist about an infected insect bite without needing to arrange a GP appointment first.
At Woodgrange Pharmacy in Forest Gate, the pharmacist will assess your symptoms and decide the most appropriate next step. Where treatment under the NHS Pharmacy First pathway is clinically appropriate, the pharmacist can provide it. If your symptoms fall outside the service, you will be advised where to seek further care.
What happens during a Pharmacy First consultation?
- The pharmacist asks about your symptoms and how they have changed.
- They may need to look at the affected area.
- They check relevant medical history, allergies and medicines.
- They decide whether the NHS Pharmacy First pathway is appropriate.
- They provide treatment or self-care advice when appropriate, or refer you onwards if needed.
When is it urgent?
Call 999 if you develop severe difficulty breathing, collapse, or rapidly developing swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue. If you are becoming increasingly unwell, symptoms are spreading quickly, or you are worried about a serious reaction, seek urgent medical advice through NHS 111 or another appropriate urgent care service.
Local Pharmacy First service in East London
Our Forest Gate pharmacy serves patients from across Newham and surrounding East London areas, including Manor Park, Upton Park, East Ham, Plaistow, Stratford, Maryland and Leytonstone.
Pharmacy First treatment is based on NHS pathway eligibility and clinical assessment. The pharmacist may refer you to another healthcare service when necessary.