Safeguard, a pest control company, lists the 7 common household bugs on its website. It includes different insects which need different first-aid treatments. The bites of the same animals may also lead to severe allergic reactions according to Healthdirect, Australia’s health information website. Fortunately, there is also an available first aid response to it. Read further if you are interested to know more about these insects and how to deal with their bites.
What are Australia’s Common Household Bugs?
Safeguard discusses Australia’s common household bugs on its website.
- Termites
- Spiders
- Fleas
- Bed bugs
- Cockroaches
- Wasps
- Ants
The company also states that some of these bugs may pose a danger.
What is the First Aid for the Bite of the Common Household Bugs in Australia?
A few resources cite the first aid treatments for the following insects.
Termites
Healthline, a resource for health and wellness with expert reviews and person-first experiences, suggests washing a termite bite with soap and water. It also recommends applying a cold compress for discomfort and observing the area for any changes.
Spiders
Healthdirect states that the first aid for the other spider bites that are not from a funnel web or redback is a cold compress for 15 minutes. The two mentioned spiders are dangerous so you need to apply further first aid interventions. It includes applying a pressure immobilisation bandage, using a cold pack, and calling 000.
Fleas
Better Health Channel, a website of the Victorian Government, suggests washing flea bites with antiseptic soap. It also recommends doing further treatments such as applying an ice pack and using a cream for the itching.
Bed Bugs
Healthdirect explains that although bed bug bites clear up on their own, a first aid measure may help. Washing it with water, applying a cold pack, and putting in a lotion may help relieve the itchiness.
Cockroaches
Rentokil, a pest control company, discusses how washing a cockroach bite with warm soapy water may help. It mentions the use of an ice pack if swelling occurs and using home remedies such as lemon juice and aloe vera for the itch.
Wasps
Healthdirect advises washing a wasp-stung area stung with soap and water after scraping the stinger with a fingernail. It also states that cold packs and pain relievers are helpful.
Ants
Queensland’s National Fire Ant Eradication Program discusses how a cold compress and antihistamine may help with ant bites if there is no allergic history.
What is the First Aid to the Severe Allergic from the Bites of Australia’s Common Household Bugs?
Healthdirect explains that some people may experience a severe allergic reaction from the bites and stings of insects. Casualties may experience anaphylaxis which will need an adrenaline injection and possibly further treatment in a hospital.
Why is Adrenaline Injection a First Aid for the Bites of Australia’s Common Household Bugs?
Healthdirect informs that Adrenaline treats very low blood pressure and poor circulation in anaphylaxis. It also discusses that this first-aid treatment relaxes the lungs to improve breathing and reduces swelling.
How do you do First Aid for Severe Allergic Reactions from the Bites of Australia’s Common Household Bugs?
Healthdirect provides step-by-step instructions on using adrenaline autoinjectors which you may better learn from an anaphylaxis first aid course.
How Can You Learn the First Aid Treatments for Australia’s Common Household Bugs?
Online resources, videos, and guides may provide you the information on what treatments to apply. A free online first aid course and in-person training may give further knowledge and skills on how to do them. Both of these are available on the website and training centres of CPR First Aid (RTO NO 21903). It is one of Australia’s Registered Training Organisations approved to deliver the said units of competency throughout the country. It also offers training for the management and first aid treatment of anaphylaxis.
Is a First Aid Course Ideal to Treat the Bites of Australia’s Common Household Bugs?
The end of Healthdirect’s discussion about insect bites and stings involves a topic about doing a first aid course. In its last paragraph, it states that knowing what to do in an emergency may save a life. So it states how it’s a very good idea to do a first aid course.
How Can You Prevent the Bites of Australia’s Common Household Bugs?
Healthdirect recommends wearing the following pieces of protective clothing when walking through a bush.
- Closed shoes
- Socks
- Long pants
- Long sleeved shirt
The website also suggests wearing gloves and protective clothing when gardening as bites and stings may still happen even if you are around home.
Conclusion
Washing an affected area with soap and water, a cold pack, and a cream are the common first aid treatments for Australia’s common household bugs. If it leads to a severe allergic reaction, injecting adrenaline is the recommended response. Online resources and first-aid training may give you the knowledge and skills of doing these. It is best to wear protective clothing when walking around bushes and gardening to prevent insect bites and stings.
