Apply creams or solutions with essential oils directly to the skin outdoors or before going to bed: Lavender, citronella, tea tree or eucalyptus cannot stand mosquitoes. Additionally, install protective screens on the windows or sleep under a mosquito net.

When removing a bee stinger, be careful not to touch the venom sac at the top of the stinger, otherwise further venom may enter the skin. Pull out the stinger with tweezers or a sharp-edged object (e.g. pocket knife) at the same angle as it entered the skin.

Inhibit further venom absorption by the skin by cooling the sting site with an ice pack. Alternatively, an insect bite solution or gel with ammonia can be applied to the stings of bees, wasps, mosquitoes and horseflies several times a day and gently massaged in. It has a cooling, antipruritic and anti-allergic effect and quickly relieves the pain. Do not cover the sting afterwards and rinse your hands with water.

No matter how itchy you are, do not scratch the stings to avoid infection.

Mosquito larvae develop in stagnant waters such as ponds or near lakes and rivers. Therefore, avoid mosquito breeding grounds around your home: always empty watering cans completely, keep roof drains clear and cover rain barrels.

See a doctor or go to the emergency room immediately if you are stung by bees or wasps in the mouth, throat or on the lips. Suck an ice cube on the way there.