Anna Whitehouse was hospitalised earlier this year after a false widow spider bite became infected and developed into sepsis. Initially sent home from A&E with a course of penicillin, her condition deteriorated over the following days, requiring hospital admission, IV antibiotics and treatment for the wound.
Delayed Treatment Led to Serious Infection
Anna said: "If I could go back, I'd tell myself to trust my instincts sooner. I waited 72 hours hoping it would just get better on its own. By the time I went to A&E, I was sent home with penicillin, but it had already escalated further than that could fix." Her wound became increasingly bloodied and ulcerated over the following days, leaving her seriously ill in hospital and in intense pain.
Myths and Misconceptions About Bites
Research from Asda Pharmacy found that four in 10 Brits still believe myths and old-wives' tales about bites, with some treating them using toothpaste, vinegar or other ineffective home remedies. Almost a quarter wouldn't be able to recognise the signs of an infected bite, while 35% admit they have left a bite untreated because they didn't want to "make a fuss". 69% of GPs say they regularly see patients with insect bites that could have been treated at a pharmacy instead.
Asda Pharmacy Launches BITE Acronym
Asda Pharmacy has launched a simple acronym to help people know when to choose Pharmacy First over their GP. BITE is a straightforward guide to preventing and treating insect bites: B – Be prepared: Apply insect repellent before heading to known hotspots. I – Itching spreads infection: Resist the urge to scratch. T – Treat it early: Asda Pharmacy can provide expert advice and prescriptions including antibiotics. E – Extreme reactions? Head straight to A&E.
Faisal Tuddy, head of pharmacy at Asda, said: "Every summer we see the same myths doing the rounds, and the same painful mistakes. Toothpaste won't soothe a sting, and trying to suck out venom can do more harm than good. Most bites are nothing to worry about with the right first aid, but some need prompt treatment to avoid infection - and that's exactly what Pharmacy First is there for. You can walk into any Asda Pharmacy, no appointment needed, and we'll assess it, treat it, and prescribe antibiotics on the spot if needed."
Urgent Advice from Victim
Anna added: "If something doesn't feel right, don't wait it out. Get expert advice early because a bite that seems minor can become serious much more quickly than you'd think."
