insect bites

An extract from babycentre...

Can an insect bite or sting cause an infection?

A bite or sting can become infected as a result of bacteria introduced when the insect bit your child or within a few days if your child scratches it too much. Check for a growing area of redness around the bite, a firm bump where she was stung, or a temperature. If you suspect your child has an infection, contact your GP, who may suggest a course of antibiotics.

If a tick bites your child, watch out for signs of Lyme disease, which is a serious bacterial infection. If a rash or a ring forms around the bite and starts to spread, take your child to a doctor (CKS 2007).

Although it's extremely rare, children can get encephalitis (swelling of the brain) and other conditions from viruses carried by insects (CKS 2007). If your child seems confused or sleepy or develops a temperature or stiff neck, be on the safe side and take her to your nearest accident and emergency department.