Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Insect stings are one of the most common causes of life threatening, severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) in Australia.
  • Insect bites are less likely to cause a severe allergic reaction, but can cause milder reactions on the skin.
  • You should visit your doctor (GP) or clinical immunology/allergy specialist to diagnose your allergy and advise you on what to do if you have an insect sting or bite.
  • If you are at risk of a severe allergic reaction, you must carry an adrenaline (epinephrine) injector (such as EpiPen® or Anapen®), and a mobile phone to call for help.
  • In an emergency, always call triple zero (000).

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Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 08-04-2022