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.

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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.

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Insect bites and 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 bites and stings.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 about mosquito-borne diseases.

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Summer skin rashes

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

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Barmah Forest virus

Barmah Forest virus is an illness transmitted by mosquitoes and found only in Australia. Read more about symptoms and treatment.

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Bed bugs

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

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Spider bites

Bitten by a spider? Not sure what to do? This article explains the best first aid treatment depending on the type of spider involved.

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Jellyfish stings

Jellyfish stings are common and mostly painful. Some are so serious that you may need emergency medical attention. Read this page on jellyfish stings to hear what to do if you of someone you are with gets stung.

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Stinging plants

It can be difficult to know if a sting from a plant is dangerous or not. This article explains the best first aid treatment depending on the plant involved.

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Chikungunya virus

Chikungunya virus is a disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. It's found mainly in Africa and Asia, so if you're travelling to these areas it's important to take precautions against being bitten.

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Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is very serious and can even be fatal. See here for the symptoms to look out for and what to do in an emergency.

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Tick bites

Tick bites are usually harmless, but it’s still important to know how to avoid and treat bites, and what to do after visiting an area where ticks are present.

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Lyme disease

Lyme disease is caused by bacteria transmitted in a tick bite however, the types of tick that carry the bacteria have not been found in Australia.

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Poisoning

Poisoning occurs frequently and most cases happen at home. Learn here about symptoms, prevention and what to do in an emergency.

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Blisters

Blisters form in response to friction or pressure on the skin. Many need only simple care; others may be a symptom of disease and need to be treated by your GP.

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Look after yourself this Australia Day

This Australia Day, use these handy and practical tips to ensure you enjoy the sun and snags, while avoiding any alcohol-related misadventure.

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Antihistamines

Antihistamine medications help ease allergy symptoms. Read more here about how they are used to treat conditions like hay fever and asthma.

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How to use an adrenaline autoinjector (EpiPen)

An adrenaline autoinjector can, in an emergency, save the life of someone who is having a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Learn how to use one here.

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Lyssavirus (ABLV)

Find out about Australian bat Lyssavirus, and learn how it can be prevented if you are bitten or scratched by a bat.

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Dust mites

Dust mites are tiny, spider-like creatures that feed on dust, pollen and fungal spores. Here's what to do if they trigger allergy symptoms.

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Snake bites

About 100 Australian snakes are venomous. Although only 12 are likely to inflict a wound that could kill you. Learn about first aid for snake bites.

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Dog, cat and bat bites

Dog and cat bites are the most common types of animal bite. Here’s what to do if you get bitten, with information about when to get medical help.

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