Mosquito Bites in Children

Mosquitoes are a common nuisance that can affect children throughout the year. While these tiny pests might seem minor, their bites can lead to significant discomfort and health concerns for kids. With their sensitive skin and developing immune systems, children are particularly prone to the itching, swelling, and potential health risks associated with mosquito bites. In this article, we’ll explore why children are more susceptible to mosquito bites, provide practical tips for effective prevention, and offer advice on how to manage and soothe bites. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can help ensure that your child remains comfortable and protected from these pesky insects.

What does it look like?

Mosquito bites typically appear as small, red, raised bumps on the skin. They may be round or slightly oval-shaped and are often itchy. In some cases, the area around the bite can become swollen or develop a small blister. The size and severity of the reaction can vary depending on the individual’s sensitivity to mosquito saliva. Often, people will confuse with bed bug bites and mosquito bites:

When a mosquito bites your baby, it injects saliva into the skin, triggering swelling, redness, and itching as part of the body’s natural reaction. Some individuals are more sensitive to mosquito saliva than others, leading to a stronger response. Over time, the body develops a mild defense against mosquito bites. However, since babies are still new to the environment, they haven’t built up this protection yet, so their reactions to bites may be more intense.

What are the symptoms of a mosquito bite?

The common symptom:

• Itchy and irritated skin
• Raised, circular bump on the skin where the mosquito bites
• A puffy and reddish bump appeared a few minutes after the bite
• Dark spots that look like bruises

 

More severe symptoms and complications like:

• An allergic reaction (hives, swollen lymph nodes, faintness, and wheezing)
• Infection of a disease carried by a mosquito such as fever, headache, body aches, rashes, nausea, fatigue.
• Infected by mosquito-borne viruses such as dengue, Japanese Encephalitis, Chikungunya, Yellow fever, and many more.
• Impetigo – A local bacterial infection that gives sores, soft scabs, and pus. It is caused by scratching or picking at the bites

How do I stop mosquito bites from itching?

• First of all, tell your kids not to scratch. It will risk breaking their skin and exposing them to an infection. Even if the mosquito bites only last a few days, there are numerous over-the-counter products and home remedies available to relieve the itch from mosquito bites.

However, although most home remedies are safe for the majority of people, it’s wise to consult your healthcare provider before trying them to treat mosquito bites. Some individuals may be at risk of experiencing an allergic skin reaction.

• Antihistamine medicine, pills, cream, or ointment
• Hydrocortisone cream or ointment relieves itching and swelling
• Ice can reduce inflammation, pain, swelling, and itchiness as it slows down the amount of blood flow.

A soothing lotion and a cool compress are simple yet effective ways to treat mosquito bites and marks in babies, toddlers, and older children. These methods can ease the discomfort of an itchy or swollen bite anywhere on the body, including sensitive areas like the head and face. Be especially cautious when applying lotion near the eyes and mouth.

If your child’s healthcare provider approves using these lotions and creams, consider keeping them in your baby’s first-aid kit, as mosquito bites can happen anytime!

For older children, the healthcare provider might recommend additional at-home treatments or prescribe antihistamines to relieve itching. Always avoid using any medication that hasn’t been recommended by the provider.

How to prevent it?

• Use netting and repair screens, or mosquito nets.
• Cover skin with clothing
• Avoid dressing in bright colors or floral patterns
• Skip scented products
• Avoid outdoor play and water at specific times (dawn, dusk, and nighttime)
• Clean up around your home or property to avoid standing water.

When to see a doctor?

Consult a healthcare provider if you have an allergic reaction to a mosquito bite or show symptoms of a mosquito-borne disease. If you’ve recently traveled to an area with active mosquito-transmitted diseases and noticed any symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention.

The bottom line

Protecting your little ones from mosquito bites is essential for their comfort and safety. Simple treatments like soothing lotions, cool compresses, and healthcare-approved remedies can help ease the irritation of mosquito bites. Always consult your child’s healthcare provider if they show signs of an allergic reaction or symptoms of mosquito-borne diseases. Keeping preventive measures and bite treatments on hand ensures that you’re ready to handle any mosquito encounters.

 

References

Mosquito Bites: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments. (2021, October 15). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17695-mosquito-bites

Mosquito Bites on Babies, Toddlers, and Older Kids | Pampers. (n.d.). Web-Pampers-US-EN. https://www.pampers.com/en-us/baby/health/article/mosquito-bites-on-babies

Mosquito Bite. (2012). Seattle Children’s Hospital. https://www.seattlechildrens.org/conditions/a-z/mosquito-bite/

CDC. (2024). About Mosquito Bites. Mosquitoes. https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/about/about-mosquito-bites.html#cdc_disease_basics_prevention-prevention

Dodd, K. (2022, November 17). Bed Bug Bites vs. Mosquito Bites: How to Tell the Difference | Carolina Pest. Carolina Pest. https://www.carolinapest.com/bed-bug-mosquito-bite/

World Health Organization Bhutan. (2023, September 20). Mosquito bites can be dangerous if the bites are from infected mosquitoes. Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/WHOBhutan/posts/5007191912692147