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Bug bite & sting treatment

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Services are available at MinuteClinic (virtual care also available)

Walk-ins welcome — no appointment necessary!

Insurance and pricing

Most insurance accepted. Check your coverage or estimate the cost of your visit if you’re uninsured or prefer to pay out-of-pocket.

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Need to know more about bug bites and stings? We’ve got you covered.

What are bug bites and stings?

Bug bites and stings can occur at any time of year, but warm weather makes it more likely that you and your family will be spending time outdoors. Warm weather also brings out bugs and flying insects such as bees and wasps, which may increase your risk of getting a bite or sting.

Bites and stings can range in severity from merely irritating to life-threatening. They can be especially dangerous for children, particularly when they get multiple bites or stings.

What symptoms can occur with bug bites and stings?

  • Burning or aching pain
  • Itching
  • Raised spots
  • Swelling at the site

Most symptoms of infection are not specific. There are a few signs that you should look out for because they can signal an infection that should immediately be evaluated by a health care provider.

The infections that require more attention are those due to conditions such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and West Nile virus. The symptoms that you should pay particular attention to include:

  • A red, spotted rash on your palms and the soles of your feet
  • A skin rash that looks like a bull’s-eye
  • Body aches
  • Confusion/disorientation
  • Flu-Like symptoms
  • Joint/Muscle pain
  • Lack of appetite
  • Swollen lymph nodes

Catching these symptoms early makes it easier to treat the diseases that cause them.

Getting help

MinuteClinic providers can discuss your symptoms and health history. They can clean the site to prevent infection and manage symptoms like itching and swelling. They can develop a treatment plan and help you avoid bites and stings in the future.

  1. You may have to answer a few questions about symptoms to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.

  2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment:

    If you made your appointment online:
    Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.

    If you made your appointment in the clinic:
    Sign in at the electronic kiosk.

    If you made a MinuteClinic Virtual Care® appointment:
    To join your virtual visit, use the link in the email or text message we sent you to confirm your appointment. Please join 15 minutes before your scheduled visit time. You will need your date of birth and zip code to join the visit.

  3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
  4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
  5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, receipt and educational material about your diagnosis. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

Bug Bite & Sting causes, symptoms and treatment

Many people have allergies to certain types of bites and stings. Allergic reactions can range in severity from mild itching up to problems breathing, which can be life-threatening.

Infections caused by bites and stings can affect anyone, but are usually more of a problem for the very young, the very old or those with weak immune systems.

  • Drainage
  • Fever
  • Rash
  • Redness of the affected area
  • Swelling
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IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ: This material is for reference only and should not be used to determine treatment for specific medical conditions. Please visit a health care provider for evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of any symptoms you may be experiencing. If you're experiencing a medical emergency, please dial 911 or visit your local emergency department.

 

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