Visits to he NHS website's insect bites and stings page are three times higher than last summer.

NHS England analysis reported that there were 261,364 visits to the page in June 2023, compared to 86,984 visits this time last year.

Between 12 and 18 June, there were 91,630 weekly visits to the page – equivalent to one view every seven seconds.

The website lists advice on how to relieve symptoms including bringing down swelling using ice packs or reducing itching with antihistamines, as well as pain relief.

Dame Ruth May, NHS England’s chief nursing officer, said: “We often see a rise in insect bites and stings during the summer months, but the number of people seeking advice from the NHS website has really spiked this year, suggesting there has been a significant increase.

“The NHS.uk website is available 24 hours a day offering advice on a range of conditions including bites and stings. It provides tips on easing swelling and itching, as well as helping people identify more serious symptoms needing urgent medical attention.”

Image by Mohamed Nuzrath from Pixabay