We share the planet with animal and insects – millions of them. It should come as no surprise then, that animal and insect allergies are a common and potentially serious health risk. Allergies occur when your body’s immune system overreacts to a substance to which it exhibits a hypersensitivity.

With animals, this occurs most frequently in response to pet saliva, urine, dead skin, or other allergens trapped by fur or hair. Stinging insects, such as wasps and bees, are the most common source of insect allergies, but bites from fire ants, ticks, fleas, and other bugs can cause medical issues as well.

Many animal and insect allergies are relatively mild but, in some cases, can pose grave threats to health, including anaphylactic shock and death. If animal or insect allergies are a concern, the allergy professionals at Baptist Health can help. For the most serious situations, Baptist Health emergency and urgent-care facilities are available around the clock.