<p>Most insect bites are harmless, though they sometimes cause discomfort. Bee, wasp, and hornet stings and fire ant bites usually hurt. <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/mosquitobites.html">Mosquito</a> and flea bites usually itch. Insects can also spread diseases. In the United States, some mosquitoes spread <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/westnilevirus.html">West Nile virus</a>. Travelers outside the United States may be at risk for <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/malaria.html">malaria</a> and other infections. </p> <p>To prevent insect bites and their complications:</p><ul> <li>Don't bother insects</li> <li>Use insect repellant </li> <li>Wear protective clothing </li> <li>Be careful when you eat outside because food attracts insects</li> <li>If you know you have severe allergic reactions to insect bites and stings (such as <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/anaphylaxis.html">anaphylaxis</a>), carry an emergency epinephrine kit</li> </ul>