Summer is here and so are the mosquitoes. Not only can they put a damper on your grilling and backyard pool party plans, but some not-so-lucky people have an over-the-top skin reaction when they get stung, which can be hard to deal with (especially when it’s your kid who’s miserable). So, what should a parent do? Pediatrics ER physician and mom of four Dr. Meghan Martin shares three tips for preventing mosquito bites and the best ways to treat them when they do happen.
@beachgem10 Replying to @parker hennessey There are absolutely things you can do to reduce or avoid mosquito bites! And for treatment, keep it simple with cool compress and topical hydrocortisone #mosquito #summer #emergency #doctor #skeeter Disclaimer: For educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be regarded as medical advice or replace the advice of your physician
♬ original sound – Beachgem10
3 Ways to Avoid Mosquito Bites:
- Cover your skin. Long sleeves and long pants are the way to go when the mosquitoes are out. “Tightly woven material is hard to bite through,” Dr. Martin says.
- Use an EPA-registered repellent. Dr. Martin recommends DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon/eucalyptus, Para-menthane-diol (PMD), and 2-Undecanone. Note: These are only approved for kids over two months old.
- Avoid going outside at dawn and dusk. “We know a couple times a day when mosquitoes are most active, ” Dr. Martin says. “Go inside for an hour during these times, and you can greatly reduce your exposure.”
When they do bite, there are a few things you can do to help kids (or yourself) feel more comfortable. Dr. Martin suggests you start by washing the area with soap and water. “You can apply a cool compress and you can use some topical hydrocortisone,” Dr. Martin says, though she cautions against topical Benadryl.
Dr. Martin goes on to explain that some people have a more severe reaction to mosquito bites, called “Skeeter Syndrome,” where they get large welts after a bite. Treatment is usually second-generation antihistamines, like Zyrtec or Xyzol.
Even though it’s pretty tough to make it through the season without a single bite, if you think smart and know how and when to avoid them, you’ll be one step closer to a more enjoyable summer.
