Mosquito bites are the most common problem among parents when they let their children play outdoors. Mosquitoes are common pests that can be found in various states and countries. These insects mainly multiply and bite during the hot summer months, when people, especially children, spend more time outdoors. These insects can spread diseases and viruses which can cause health complications, some of these can even be fatal.
Mosquitoes are carriers of several dangerous blood-borne diseases, including Dengue Fever, Malaria, Yellow Fever, West Nile Virus, Japanese Encephalitis, and so on. However, it is important to note that these insects do not spread hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or HIV. For this reason, parents are wary about allowing their children to play outdoors where mosquitoes might bite them. The typical reaction to mosquito bites may involve skin inflammation, redness, and itchiness. If the child scratches the bite area, it may lead to an open wound which will become vulnerable to bacterial infection.
Mosquito Bite First Aid Treatment For Kids
- Prevent swelling: Once you catch a mosquito taking a bite out of your child’s sensitive skin, immediately get it off. To prevent the bite from swelling, you must apply a cold pack or ice pack. Another tip is to use a roll-on deodorant that has aluminum chloride. This will prevent swelling.
- Ease itching: You can apply an anti-itch ointment, such as calamine to prevent itchiness. You can also consider applying anti-histamine or anti-inflammatory creams, such as cortisone cream, to your child’s skin since it can reduce itchiness and prevent swelling.
- Prevent your child form scratching the bite area: If your child keeps on scratching the bite, it will eventually break the skin, leading to bacterial infection. For this reason, you must discourage your child from scratching the bite site. Another tip is to trim your child’s nails to prevent breaking the skin. Additionally, you must explain to your young one that scratching or picking the mosquito bite will only make it worse.
When should you see a doctor? Once you find any signs of infection, such as swelling, pus, and redness, or you notice that the bite area feels warm to the touch, you must immediately go the doctor. You have to realize that mosquitoes can carry disease, and there are some people who are infected with a certain virus but they do not get sick at all. Additionally, you must be aware of the common symptoms of a disease, including fever, headaches, vomiting, and nausea. If your toddler starts to manifest any of these signs, you must take him/her to the pediatrician, and mention that your child has been bitten by a mosquito.
How To Prevent Mosquito Bites
Avoid Peak Biting Times: Most species of mosquitoes prefer to bite around dusk until dawn; while others bite during the day. These insects are most active during hot and humid weather. As a parent, you must discourage your child from playing outdoors during these peak biting times.
Wear Appropriate Clothes Outdoors: You can also dress your child with lose, long-sleeved, and light colored clothing. It is advisable to dress them with clothes that cover as much body parts as possible.
Stay Away From Stagnant Waters: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant and still water. For this reason, you must make sure that your yard or garden is free from such breeding grounds, and empty out any cans, bottles, and spare tires that might hold water.
Use Insect Repellants: If your child loves playing outdoors, you can apply insect repellants on their uncovered skin. It is advisable to use insect repellants with 10% to 20% DEET. Make sure that the repellant you choose is safe for young children. Additionally, you must first test the repellant on a small patch of your child’s skin to make sure that they don’t have severe reaction. When applying it to your child’s body, keep it away from their eyes or mouth. Finally, wash the insect repellant before going to bed.
Citations:
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Kris Lim is a mother of one, who knows how stressful it can be to worry about your child’s wellbeing as they play outdoors. To ensure the safety of your children against mosquito bites, you need to learn how to repel insects and bugs. The author also writes for pest control companies and websites, such as RovePestControlReviews.com.
