Quick appointment and no fuss. I left with clear advice and the swelling eased by the next morning. Great local service.
Infected Insect Bite in Ealing
Get expert advice and treatment for infected insect bites at South Ealing Pharmacy, helping you heal faster and feel better.
- Expert pharmacist assessment
- Antibiotics when appropriate
- Follow up if needed

What you need to know
Infected insect bites are common, especially in warm months. You may notice redness, heat, swelling and increasing pain around the bite. There may be fluid or crusting. You could feel unwell or have a temperature. Pharmacy First can help you decide the next step.
At South Ealing Pharmacy, you can speak to a trained pharmacist without delay. We assess your symptoms, examine the area and ask key questions to check for infection. We explain what is likely going on. You get clear advice on how to ease pain and reduce swelling.
If you need treatment, we will discuss suitable options. This can include a short course of antibiotics when appropriate. If the bite is not infected, you will still get practical care to help it settle. You will also learn what to watch for over the next few days.
Some symptoms mean you should be seen elsewhere. Please seek urgent help if the redness is spreading quickly, you feel very unwell, or there is swelling of the face or mouth. Call for urgent help if you have breathing problems or a severe allergic reaction. We will advise if a referral is needed.
You can access our service if you live or work in South Ealing, Ealing, Acton, Hanwell, Brentford or across West London. Appointments are quick and friendly. You leave knowing what to do and when to seek more help.
When Pharmacy First is right for you
Come to us if you have a bite that is getting worse over 24 to 48 hours. We can help when the area is red, hot, painful or weeping. We also support you if symptoms are bothering your daily life.
- Redness or heat at the bite
- Pain or tenderness around the area
- Swelling that is not improving
- Fluid, crusting or a small boil
- Bite on arms, legs or body
- Not sure if it is infected
Practical self care that helps
Simple steps reduce symptoms and speed up recovery. These tips protect the skin and support healing. They also lower the chance of scarring or further infection.
- Clean the area with soap and water
- Use a cold compress for ten minutes
- Keep the limb raised to reduce swelling
- Avoid scratching to protect the skin
- Consider pain relief if needed
- Use insect repellent when outdoors


Your local pharmacy team
South Ealing Pharmacy is a community pharmacy and trusted healthcare partner. For over a decade we have delivered personal, professional care from the same shop on South Ealing Road: prescription dispensing including electronic repeats, travel vaccinations, general immunisations, private health checks, and a collection and delivery service.
Whether you need everyday advice or a specific treatment, you can walk in and talk to a pharmacist, or book a clinic appointment online in about a minute.
What our patients say
Professional from start to finish. Easy booking, quick assessment and great aftercare advice. I recommend South Ealing Pharmacy to everyone.
I was worried about infection. They checked it properly and gave clear steps to reduce swelling. Excellent care close to home.
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know before you visit.
Speak to our friendly pharmacy team, we are happy to help, no appointment needed.
Call 020 8560 3532Contact usYes. We assess you, advise on self care and provide treatment. If antibiotics are suitable, we can supply them under the service.
Walk in or book ahead. Booking helps you avoid waiting and secures your preferred time.
Increasing redness, heat, swelling and pain are common signs. Fluid, crusting or a feeling of being unwell can also happen.
Not always. Many bites improve with self care and time. We use antibiotics only when they are likely to help.
Seek urgent help if you have spreading redness with fever, severe pain, or swelling of the face or mouth. Call for help if you have breathing problems.
We will advise case by case. If a different service is safer for your child, we will arrange the right referral.
Follow the advice you are given and finish any course if supplied. Come back or call us if symptoms are not improving within two to three days.
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Read moreCome and see us
186 South Ealing Road, London W5 4RJ
2 min walk from South Ealing station (Piccadilly line) ยท free parking nearby
Opening hours
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Expert care and personalised advice, book online or call us today.