An insect allergy is an allergic reaction to a sting or bite from an insect that has an irritant or toxin in its saliva or venom. In most cases a person bitten or stung by an insect will experience a swelling, redness and mild pain, but in some people a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction may be experienced.

As is quite evident, it is not possible to control when a person is stung by an insect, so if a person has a serious insect allergy it is important that treatment and preventative measures are followed.

As insect allergies cannot be predicted, the best course of treatment is prevention.

- Stay away from areas known to have large numbers of insects.

- Remove nests around the home by contacting trained experts.

- Check the house and garden regularly for the signs of insects and their nests.

- Keep away from rubbish bins and containers.

- Shake out clothes and towels etc. which have been left on the ground or near possible insect sites.

- Be careful when drinking from drink containers which may have been left outside, as an insect could be inside.

- Check for insects before getting into a car or other vehicle, and drive with the windows closed.

- Avoid flower beds, fields etc. especially when in bloom.

- Wear long sleeved clothing, trousers instead of shorts etc.

- Choose white or light colored clothes, as dark clothed can attract insects.

- Avoid perfumes, cosmetics or sprays which could attract insects.

- Have a ready supply of insect repellent sprays and insecticides.

- If you come into contact with an insect, stay calm and brush the insect away or have someone do it for you.