Bites and stings – Heatwave sent creepy crawlies into a frenzy as Irish report an increase in bites and stings

Irish holidaymakers have been reporting an increase in the summer invasion of creepy crawlies as the soaring temperatures earlier this year sent insects into overdrive.

From angry wasps at the barbecue to mosquitoes buzzing around bedrooms, and spiders making an unwelcome appearance indoors, the hot spell created the perfect conditions for some of summer’s most irritating pests.

Health chiefs in Ireland have warned that warmer weather can mean more insect bites and stings, with the HSE reminding the public that most are harmless and settle within hours or days.

And across the water, the NHS has previously recorded huge spikes in people seeking advice about bites and stings during periods of hot weather.

During a heatwave in 2025, almost half a million people visited the NHS website’s insect bites and stings advice page in just two months, highlighting how quickly the problem can become a seasonal headache.

Soaring temperatures mean more insect bites and stings. (RollingNews.ie)

Now, as temperatures ease back, experts are still urging families to take care – particularly when eating outside, gardening, camping or spending time near long grass and water.

And while terrifying tales of giant spiders can send social media into meltdown, the reality is considerably less dramatic. The HSE says spider bites are not common in Ireland.

But some spiders, including the increasingly familiar false widow, can deliver a painful bite which may cause redness and swelling. In rare cases, bites can cause symptoms including nausea, dizziness, sweating or a serious allergic reaction.

The advice is simple: don’t panic and don’t go hunting for spiders with a slipper.

Instead, keep an eye on any bite which becomes increasingly painful, swollen or infected.

Wasps, bees and hornets are another summer menace – particularly when temperatures rise, and gardens fill with food and drink.

A can of fizzy pop left unattended, a sticky ice lolly or a plate of barbecue food can become an irresistible target.

Tick bite. (Getty Images)

And while most stings cause little more than temporary pain, redness and swelling, they can be dangerous for people who suffer a severe allergic reaction.

The NHS warns that anaphylaxis requires emergency treatment, and anyone struggling to breathe, becoming dizzy or faint, or developing swelling of the mouth, throat or tongue after a sting should seek emergency help immediately.

It’s not just the flying brigade causing problems, although mosquitoes, midges and horseflies can all leave victims scratching for days.

Ticks are another concern for people enjoying the great outdoors, particularly walkers, campers and anyone venturing through long grass or woodland.

Health advice recommends covering up where possible, using insect repellent and checking your body for ticks after spending time outdoors.

For most ordinary bites and stings, the advice is reassuring. Wash the area with soap and water, apply something cold to reduce swelling and try not to scratch.

Pharmacists can also advise on treatments such as antihistamines for itching and swelling.

But anyone who develops breathing difficulties, dizziness, severe swelling or other signs of a serious allergic reaction should seek urgent medical attention.

So while the hot weather may be on its way out, people are still enjoying the last of the summer barbecues and trips to the beach, and there’s one group enjoying the sunshine just as much as we are.

The bugs. And they’re hungry.

*This article was originally published on Extra.ie.