If you or a family member has been bitten or stung, the injury can range from a mild irritation to a serious, even life-threatening, wound. It’s important to know what to do.
Call Healthline 0800 611 116 if you are unsure what you should do.
Bites and stings
In this section
- All bites that break the skin are serious. You should always see a doctor after being bitten to avoid infection. Find out what first aid to do and what treatment to receive. Read more
- Bee and wasp stings can be very painful, and in some people can cause a dangerous allergic reaction. Find out how to avoid getting stung, and what to do to treat the sting. Read more
- An insect bite is usually a red itchy bump. Find out what to do if your child gets bitten. Read more
- Some kinds of jellyfish deliver a painful sting. Find out what to do if you or a family member gets stung. Read more
- Most spiders in New Zealand are harmless, but the katipō, redback and white-tailed spiders can be harmful and should be avoided. Find out what to do if you or a family member has been bitten, and when to see a doctor. Read more
- Stinging nettle is a common weed in New Zealand, and its sting can be very irritating. Find out how to care for nettle stings and relieve the itching. Read more
Resources
Safer and Healthier Gardening
Available on HealthEd.
Related websites
Better Health Channel
The Victoria (Australia) state government provides online consumer-focused health and medical information.