Brits are now at an increased risk of suffering from bites and stings without even leaving the country, according to a GP's new warning.
Dr Nisa Aslam said: "You might assume that dangerous insect bites and stings are confined to far-flung destinations. But you'd be wrong. The threat is very real here in the UK and the consequences can be potentially fatal. This increased threat is thanks to milder winters, warmer summers and increased rainfall, resulting in a longer season for stinging and biting insects across the UK."
Dr Aslam, who is a GP and advisor to Puressentiel, explained: "Tics in particular- small, spider-like creatures - are of huge concern, with Public Health England (PHE) having established a national TIC Surveillance Scheme (TSS) to monitor tic distribution and seasonality on a nationwide scale. Tics can lead to Lyme disease, which can cause symptoms such as tiredness, aches and loss of energy."
She further warned: "Although bite insects are becoming a health hazard in the UK, people should also remain on high alert overseas to avoid potentially fatal diseases such as dengue fever, malaria and Zika virus.
"A recent warning by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported a rise in chikungunya infections caused by mosquito bites. This is typically found in subtropical regions of the Americas, Africa, South East Asia, India, and the Pacific and it can leave people struggling with joint aches for several years. Protecting yourself is a must as the consequences of bites and stings can be incredibly serious."
Regarding prevention, Dr Aslam recommends opting for natural insect repellents instead of synthetic options: "I recommend turning to natural ingredients rather than synthetic products when it comes to tackling insect bites. Synthetic products can be neurotoxic and irritating at high doses. At low doses they can also irritate sensitive skin and adversely impact the efficacy of sunscreens. This is the opposite of natural products, which are non-toxic.
"Java Citronella and Eucalyptus citriodora, are just two of the effective essential oils found in Puressentiel's Bite and Sting Tropical Strength Repellent Lotion. The waterproof lotion offers effective protection for up to nine hours against common mosquitoes; eight hours for tropical mosquitoes; seven hours for tiger mosquitoes and nearly seven hours against sand flies..
"While Lemon eucalyptus essential oïl, found in the Puressentiel Bite and Sting Repellent and Soothing Spray, has been studied for its effectiveness against insect bites and stings, particularly as a repellent. It's thanks to its powerful active ingredient of vegetal origin (Citriodiol)."
Dr Aslam said: "Bites aren't just potentially dangerous, but they can be itchy and uncomfortable. Natural ingredients can also help to soothe bites and stings. The Puressentiel Bite and Sting Soothing Cream is made with a 99.8% natural formula and eight organic essential oils, including tea tree, clove, geranium and lavender. It reduces inflammatory allergic reactions by 35%.
"Climate changes are significantly affecting insect patterns, extending their active seasons and shifting when and where they appear throughout the year. That's why it's so essential to protect you and your family with reliable, science-backed repellents."
