How to prepare for a video visit about Insect Bites and Stings

Audience: pediatric

Insect bites and stings are common in children and usually cause mild symptoms like redness, swelling, and itching. Most bites and stings heal without special treatment. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help assess the bite or sting, guide home care, and decide if further care is needed. To prepare for your child's video visit, gather information about the bite or sting, such as when and where it happened, symptoms your child is experiencing, and any treatments already tried. During the visit, the provider may ask to see the affected area to check for signs of infection or allergic reaction. This guide helps families understand what to expect, how to prepare, and when to seek urgent care. Remember, telemedicine can support many concerns but is not a substitute for emergency care if your child has severe symptoms.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has difficulty breathing, wheezing, or swelling of face/throat — seek emergency care immediately.
• Rapidly spreading redness, warmth, or pus around the bite — contact healthcare provider promptly.
• High fever or severe pain associated with the bite or sting — seek urgent evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild to moderate insect bites and stings.
• Guidance on home care and symptom management.
• Advice on when to seek in-person or emergency care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe allergic reactions needing immediate treatment.
• Signs of serious infection requiring urgent medical intervention.
• Procedures like removal of embedded stingers or advanced wound care.

Common symptoms of insect bites and stings in children

Children often develop redness, swelling, itching, and mild pain at the site of an insect bite or sting. Sometimes a small blister or rash may appear. These symptoms usually start soon after the bite or sting and improve within a few days with simple home care.

What to prepare before the video visit

Before the video visit, have the following ready:

How the healthcare provider will assess your child via video

During the video visit, the provider will ask about your child's symptoms and medical history. They will want to see the bite or sting area clearly to check for signs of infection, allergic reaction, or other problems. They may guide you on how to care for the bite at home or recommend in-person care if needed.

When to seek emergency care immediately

If your child shows any of the following signs, seek emergency care right away:

These symptoms may indicate a severe allergic reaction or infection requiring urgent treatment.

Tips for caring for insect bites and stings at home

Most insect bites and stings improve with simple care:

What to expect after your telemedicine visit

After the video visit, follow the provider's instructions carefully. You may be advised to continue home care and watch for changes. If symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop, contact your healthcare provider or seek in-person care promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the time and location of the bite or sting.
• Prepare to show the affected area clearly on camera.
• List all symptoms your child is experiencing.
• Have information on any allergies and current medications.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's home care instructions.
• Monitor your child’s symptoms closely for any changes.
• Avoid scratching or irritating the bite area.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear.
• Seek emergency care if red flags develop.

FAQs

Can all insect bites and stings be treated through a video visit?

Many mild to moderate insect bites and stings can be assessed and managed through telemedicine. However, severe allergic reactions or infections require in-person care.

How can I tell if my child is having an allergic reaction?

Signs include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, hives, or sudden weakness. These require immediate emergency care.

Should I remove the stinger if my child is stung by a bee?

If visible, gently removing the stinger as soon as possible can reduce venom exposure. Your healthcare provider can guide you on how to do this safely during the video visit.

What home treatments help reduce itching and swelling?

Applying a cold compress, using over-the-counter anti-itch creams, and giving oral antihistamines (if appropriate) often help. Avoid scratching to prevent infection.

When should I schedule a follow-up visit?

If symptoms do not improve within a few days, worsen, or if new symptoms develop, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Sources

1. Insect Bites and Stings — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Insect Bites and Stings — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Insect Bites and Stings — Mayo Clinic.
4. Insect Bites and Stings — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek immediate medical attention.