A Ubin villager disturbed a hornet nest and got his hand stung. The folk cure is to apply a mixture of vinegar and brown sugar.
Although such incidence are rare (Nparks destroys them when they are found), a kit for insect stings would be useful. One villager recommended “Po Sum On” medicated oil. She was bitten by a centipede and the oil helped.
Ubin regular KP Tan, who has been stung by both, consider centipede bites to be more painful than scorpion bites. It must be very painful indeed. In my case I thought I a small snake has sunk its teeth into my hand and refused to let go. I was at a temple retreat in Thailand then, I couldn’t scream as everyone is sleeping then and tried shaking my hand for the imaginary snake to let go of me until I saw it was a scorpion that bit me.
Update: 22 Jun 2010. I find medicated oil like Tiger balm of little help in relieving itchy bites. But this oil seems to be most effective for me.
The small bottle of oil is protected by a metal container, preventing accidental uncapping and spills. They are available at Mustafa shopping centre. Get the smaller bottle as it is more convenient to apply without spilling.
You can try natural remedies like aloe vera. Nparks grow them at the Secret Garden located behind Ubin Police Post. Just cut a small slice from the fleshy leaf and rub on the skin.
Caterpillars with urticating hairs. Updated: June 2010.
The caterpillar’s hairs will break and embed into your skin as you brush against them or touch them. The effect on humans ranges from mild irritation to dermatitis. Nothing to be alarmed but do take precaution like wearing long sleeves shirt while bushwacking or use gloves while handling them.
