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Learn How To Take Sting Out Of Insect Bites

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GUILFORD COUNTY, N.C. — Most insect bites are just a nuisance, but others can pose a more serious threat.

In between go-cart races, bull riding, and horse rides, insects get their chance for fun at Camp Victory near Burlington. Chigger bites cover Lyndsey Price's ankles while Jenna Hubbard has a bite from a horsefly.

Camp nurse Leona Doner tries to stop the itch before the problem gets worse.

"Because if a child digs and itches at it, because their fingers are dirty, then it gets infected. It gets cellulitis," she said. "It's hard to tell if it's a reaction to the bite or a reaction to their reaction to the bite."

A bee left Lou Lewis with more than an itch. An allergy medication like Benadryl helps, along with an ice pack for the swelling.

"As long as I have ice on it, I'm fine. As soon as the numbness goes away, then I can't walk," Lewis said.

Sensitive reactions like Lewis' could lead to a more serious allergic reaction to wasp or bee stings later. An allergist may prescribe an epi-pen for an emergency dose of epinephrine.

"Some children are so allergic, that they could stop breathing when they're stung," Doner said.

Officials said the best way to avoid most bites from insects like mosquitos and ticks is to wear insect repellent containing the ingredient DEET.

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