According to statistics from NHS England, the number of website visits for NHS advice on bites and stings have increased this year.

There were were 454,238 visits to the page on bites and stings between June 25 and August 25 this year, a rise of almost 20 per cent on the same period last year.

Numbers peaked during the heatwave in the week of 14 July, when there was approximately one visit every nine seconds.

The increase coincided with a summer wasp boom caused by the warmer temperatures.

There has also been an increase in visits to guidance on Lyme disease.

Duncan Burton, Chief Nursing Officer for England, said: “Insect bites and stings usually increase during the summer months and this year we’ve seen a rise in the number of people seeking advice on these from the NHS website, as well as heightened awareness of specific conditions.

“If you or your family member has been bitten or stung, the NHS website provides a wealth of useful information on what to do and how to treat the symptoms, as well as when to consult a medical professional.

“We’d also remind people that NHS 111 is always available for non-urgent medical help, while for life threatening emergencies, please call 999”.