May be suitable
- Localised itch, redness or swelling after a bite or sting
- Questions about symptom relief and monitoring
- Concern about secondary infection without severe illness
Australian doctor-led telehealth
Online consultation for insect bites and stings
Most bites and stings cause local irritation, but allergic reactions and infection require prompt recognition. Photos may support assessment of a non-emergency reaction.
Suitability
When an online consultation may help
Telehealth may not be enough
- Breathing difficulty, throat tightness, tongue swelling, collapse or widespread hives
- A tick-related concern with paralysis symptoms or breathing difficulty
- Rapidly increasing swelling, severe pain, fever or spreading redness
Clinical assessment
What may happen during the consultation
The doctor will review your symptoms, timing, medical history, medicines and relevant risk factors. Advice, treatment, testing, imaging or in-person assessment may be recommended according to clinical need.
Explain the concernShare the symptoms, timing, relevant history and any clear photos when useful.
Doctor assessmentYour doctor considers what can be assessed safely by phone or video.
Agree on next stepsReceive advice and safety-netting. Any medicine, document, test or referral is subject to assessment.
Urgent care
Do not wait for an online appointment in an emergency
Call Triple Zero (000) for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, signs of stroke, collapse, severe bleeding, a severe allergic reaction, or any condition that appears life-threatening. For urgent but non-life-threatening advice, call 1800MEDICARE on 1800 633 422.
Clinical review
Reviewed by Dr Dong Zhao
M.D. (USyd), B.A. (UBC) · Australian-registered Medical Doctor · AHPRA general registration
Content reviewed 15 August 2026. Meet Dr Dong Zhao.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Can a bite or sting be assessed online?
A non-emergency local reaction may be reviewed using photos and history, but severe allergic symptoms need emergency care.
What if I am not sure what bit me?
The doctor can assess the reaction, but identifying the exact insect from a skin mark alone is often not possible.
Trusted information
Australian health references
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