Bug Bite or Sting:
Information for adults

Bites or stings from insects (arthropods) are very common. Most reactions are mild and result due to an allergic reaction to either the insect or the toxins injected with the bite or sting. Some people have severe reactions to the stings of:

• Bees
• Wasps
• Hornets
• Yellow jackets

These stings may require emergency help. The bites of most insects – such as ants, mosquitos, flies, spiders, ticks, bugs, and mites – do not cause such a severe reaction.

Sometimes, it may be hard to tell which type of insect has caused the skin lesions, as many insect reactions are similar. Flying insects tend to hit exposed skin areas, while bugs such as fleas tend to hit the lower legs and around the waist, and often have several bites grouped together. Some individuals are far more sensitive to insects and have more severe reactions, so the fact that no one else in the family has lesions does not rule out an insect bite.