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Insect bites and stings - Management
What follow up is recommended?
This follow-up advice only applies to people who are not admitted to hospital (i.e. are being managed in primary care).
- If a person has a local reaction to an insect bite or sting:
- Follow-up is not usually required unless symptoms are worsening.
- If the person presents with a severe local reaction, consider reviewing within 2–3 days.
- If a person presents with generalized urticaria:
- If symptoms are mild, follow-up is not usually necessary.
- Advise review if they have worsening urticaria.
- Advise urgent medical review if symptoms of systemic toxicity develop.
- Remember to consider indications for referral to an allergy clinic.
Basis for recommendation
- These recommendations are based on pragmatic advice.
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