Infected Insect Bites – Free NHS Pharmacy First Service

Most insect bites and stings settle on their own, but some become infected and need treating. Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, Medwin Pharmacy can assess an infected insect bite and, where appropriate, provide treatment without a GP appointment.

How does the service work?

You do not need an appointment or a referral. Speak to our pharmacy team and they will arrange a private consultation, usually the same day.

The pharmacist will ask about your symptoms, how long you have had them and your medical history, and will carry out any checks the NHS pathway requires. The consultation takes place in our private consultation room.

If the pharmacist decides treatment is appropriate, they can supply it directly under a national NHS protocol, without you needing to see a GP first. Depending on the condition this may include prescription-only medicine. If treatment is not suitable, or your symptoms suggest something that needs further assessment, the pharmacist will refer you to your GP practice or another NHS service.

There is no charge for the consultation. If you are supplied with a medicine, normal NHS prescription charges apply unless you are exempt.

Who is eligible?

The NHS Pharmacy First infected insect bites pathway is for adults and children aged 1 year and over. The pharmacist will confirm at your consultation whether the service is right for you, as some people are not suitable for treatment under this pathway and are better seen by a GP.

Speak to Us About Infected Insect Bites

Medwin Pharmacy, 22 Gillygate, York, YO31 7EQ
Call us on 01904 642557 or email info@medwinpharmacy.co.uk

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What is Infected Insect Bites?

An insect bite normally causes a small, itchy, red lump that improves over a few days. Sometimes bacteria enter the broken skin, usually through scratching, and cause an infection. The area then becomes more painful and inflamed instead of settling.

Symptoms to look out for

  • Redness spreading outwards from the bite rather than fading
  • Increasing pain, swelling or warmth around the bite
  • Pus or fluid coming from the site
  • A high temperature or feeling generally unwell
  • Swollen glands near the affected area

A large area of redness that is spreading quickly, a fever, or feeling very unwell needs urgent attention rather than a pharmacy consultation — contact your GP practice or NHS 111 straight away.

If your symptoms get worse, do not improve, or you feel very unwell at any point, contact your GP practice or call NHS 111. In an emergency, call 999.

Other Services

Feeling unwell? Speak to our pharmacist

NHS Pharmacy First consultations are free and no appointment is needed.

Contact the Pharmacy