![]() ![]() Mosquitos are ubiquitous and are responsible for most insect bites worldwide ( 1). Further research on topical treatments that target neural-mediated itch is needed. Treatment consists of second-generation antihistamines and topical corticosteroids. Prevention of mosquito bites is key with physical barriers or chemical repellents. Some individuals have a genetic predisposition for mosquito bites, and people with hematologic cancers, HIV, and other conditions are susceptible to robust reactions. However, other salivary proteins such as tryptase and leukotrienes may induce non-histaminergic itch. Histamine is thought to be a key player through mosquito saliva itself or through activation of mast cells by IgE or through an IgE-independent pathway. The mechanism of itch is due to introduction of mosquito saliva components into the cutaneous tissue, although the exact pathophysiology is unclear. Reactions to mosquito bites range from localized wheals and papules with associated pruritus to rare systemic reactions and anaphylaxis in certain populations. Mosquito bites are endured by most populations worldwide. Miami Itch Center, Dr Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States.Also check in with your child's doctor if you see any signs of infection (usually because your child scratches or picks at a bite) such as redness, swelling or pus, or if the area around the bite feels warm to the touch.Ashley Vander Does, Angelina Labib and Gil Yosipovitch * Trusted Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention West Nile Virus See All Sources If your child experiences any of these, check in with his pediatrician and mention that he’s recently been bitten. Four out of five people who are infected with this virus don’t get sick at all, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), but you should still be aware of the symptoms, which include fever, headache, nausea and vomiting. Mosquitoes can carry disease - in particular, West Nile virus. Besides doing all you can to prevent itching, explain to your child that scratching or picking will make the bug bite worse, and trim his fingernails as short as possible. Sharp little fingernails can break the skin around a bite and let bacteria in. Apply calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream to treat the bite as needed. If you happen to catch a mosquito munching on your child, brush it off his skin with a gentle sweep of your hand, then apply ice to the scene of the crime to prevent itching and swelling. Spray permethrin, a type of bug repellent that works well against ticks, on clothes (never directly on skin). ![]() If you aren’t sure if a particular insect repellent is okay for your baby or toddler, ask your doctor to recommend a safe one. You can also spritz it on top of clothes for added protection. ![]() Avoid spraying your child's hands and face and don't reapply unless needed. Just be careful about the concentration levels in whatever repellent you choose: up to 30 percent DEET or 10 percent picaridin is okay for little ones. ![]() Trusted Source American Academy of Pediatrics Choosing an Insect Repellent for Your Child See All Sources Most common insecticides are made with the chemical DEET, which is effective at preventing mosquito bites in children as well as tick and spider bites in children. Use insect repellent sparingly on the exposed skin of children over the age of 2 months old. Dress your child in long-sleeve shirts and long pants if you’re going to be where mosquitoes can’t be avoided. Keep mosquitoes and other flying insects out of your house by using screens on doors and windows. Wait until after dawn to go outside and head indoors at dusk, when mosquitoes are most active. Also dump out any standing water (e.g., your tot's kiddie pool) in your yard or around your house weekly: Mosquitoes breed in it. Try to stay away from areas where mosquitoes are prone to nest or congregate, such as garbage cans, small pools of water, uncovered foods and gardens. How to prevent mosquito bites in children ![]()
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