It’s Summer. The wasps are here and as per usual, are doing their very best to ruin family picnics, pub lunches and ice-lolly moments.

 

You see parents madly flapping their arms around picnics to deter the pesky wasps who are determined to join in, and children screaming as the panic sets in. Or in the case of my family, dad is panicking as much as the kids! But would you know what the best course of action is if you or your little ones get stung? One of the most common things we get asked at our baby & child first aid classes is what to do if the wasp or the grumpy bee stings their baby or child.

 

Wasp and bee stings

 

Unfortunately for 2-year old Grace, she stood on a wasp with bare feet. Ouch! So we put our Mini First Aid advice into practice. The sting was below her big toe.

 

To remove a sting NEVER USE TWEEZERS, if you do it would squeeze the venom into the skin. Instead, swipe a credit card across the skin to remove the sting. Use a cold pack to relieve the pain (click here for our Woopsadaisy or Elly Elephant cold packs) 

 

If you see any serious swelling of the affected area, swelling of the lips or any difficulty breathing, ring 999 (OR 112 if abroad) without delay as this may be a severe allergic reaction.

 

 

 

 

Other insect bites

 

We also see an increase in insect bites in the Summer and not only when families are abroad. We have some pesky biters in the UK, such as horseflies, whose bites can be very uncomfortable and itchy. To treat an insect bite, relieve any pain and minor swelling with a cold compress. Mini First Aid recommend that you then speak to your pharmacist who will be able to recommend pharmaceutical products to apply which are specific to your child.

 

And, just like stings, if you see any serious swelling of the affected area, swelling of the lips or any difficulty breathing ring 999 without delay as this may be a severe allergic reaction.

 

So, politely, buzz off stinging and biting insects - little ones (and their parents!) do not like you! 

 

 

Have you discovered WASuP yet?

 

  • organic sting relief for all ages
  • compact and portable, designed to throw in your change bag (or even your pocket!) with no fear of spills
  • contains a biodegradable bamboo wipe which, when activated, soaks the wipe in organic apple cider vinegar
  • apply directly to the sting for instant relief

 

Click here to buy now!