Healthdirect Free Australian health advice you can count on.

Medical problem? Call 1800 022 222. If you need urgent medical help, call triple zero immediately

healthdirect Australia is a free service where you can talk to a nurse or doctor who can help you know what to do.

beginning of content

Search results for: "Bites%20and%20Stings"

Symptom checker

Our Symptom checker provides clinical advice on what to do next based on your symptoms.

Bites and stings

Most insect bites and stings are relatively harmless - but some spiders, snakes and sea creatures can be very dangerous. Learn more about them here.

Read more

Sea creature bites and stings

Not sure if a bite or sting from a sea creature is dangerous? Here’s information about first aid treatments for jellyfish stings, sea snake bites and more.

Read more

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction and can be fatal. Explore triggers, symptoms, treatment and what to do in an emergency.

Read more

Insect bites and stings

Most insect bites will clear up in a day or two, although some people can have severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). Learn more about insect bites and how to handle allergic reactions.

Read more

Mosquito-borne diseases

Some illnesses are transmitted by mosquitoes ('mozzies'), including malaria, Dengue fever and the Zika virus. Here's what you need to know

Read more

Insect bites - infographic

Explore this infographic to learn about the insects that can cause infections and allergic reactions, the symptoms and treatments you should be aware of and tips to prevent bites.

Read more

Insect stings - infographic

Explore this infographic to learn about the insects that can cause infections and allergic reactions, the symptoms and treatments you should be aware of and tips to prevent stings.

Read more

Summer skin rashes

Summer rashes can be caused by things like sunlight, insects, sweating and overheating - especially if you have allergies or other pre-existing skin conditions.

Read more

Bed bugs

Bed bugs are small insects that feed on your blood, often causing itchy bites. Learn about treatment and prevention.

Read more

Jellyfish stings

Jellyfish stings are common and mostly just painful. If serious, you may need emergency medical attention. Read this page on jellyfish sting treatment.

Read more

Healthdirect 24hr 7 days a week hotline

24 hour health advice you can count on

1800 022 222

Government Accredited with over 140 information partners

We are a government-funded service, providing quality, approved health information and advice

Australian Government, health department logo ACT Government logo New South Wales government, health department logo Northen Territory Government logo Queensland Government logo Government of South Australia, health department logo Tasmanian government logo Victorian government logo Government of Western Australia, health department logo

Healthdirect Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners and to Elders both past and present.