Trivia:
What type of insect is attracted to smell from a distance of up to 120 feet and body heat and movement from a close distance?
Answer: Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are a common summertime annoyance, but in the developing nations they stick around all year long. It is likely that your child will experience a mosquito bite at some point.
Read on for tips on preventing and treating mosquito bites in children of all ages and when to consult your paediatrician.
- What Does a Mosquito Bite Look Like?
- Why are mosquito screens an essential?
- Common Symptoms of Mosquito Bites in Children
- 4 Ways to Prevent Mosquitoes
- Types of Allergic Reactions to Mosquito Bites
- Risk Factors for Increased Mosquito Bites in Children
- When to Seek Medical Attention
Red, itchy bumps! Looks like a hive?
How can you tell if a bite is from a mosquito? Mosquito bites often appear as red, circular bumps with a small puncture. You may feel a stinging sensation.
What Does a Mosquito Bite Look Like?
Mosquito bites typically start with a stinging sensation and then develop into itchy, red bumps with a small puncture. The swelling, redness, and itchiness are the body’s reaction to the mosquito’s saliva. Babies and small children may have a stronger reaction to mosquito bites compared to older children or adults.
Other signs of a mosquito bite can be:
- Large area of swelling and redness
- Multiple hives
- Low-grade fever
- Body aches
- Swollen lymph nodes
Prevention is better than cure! Insect-shield your home with mosquito screens, especially the room where your little cherubs spend most of their time.
Why are Mosquito Screens an Essential?
High-quality mosquito screens block insects and even the tiniest of mosquitoes protecting your babies and children from mosquito bites and insect-borne diseases.
Common Symptoms of Mosquito Bites in Babies and Children
Mosquito bites can be dangerous for children of all ages, but they can be particularly grave for babies and toddlers. Here are some common symptoms of mosquito bites in young children:
- Red, itchy bumps: These are the most common symptoms of mosquito bites. The bites often appear as small, red bumps that are itchy and can be painful
- Swelling: The area around the bite may become swollen or puffy
- Pain: Some children may experience pain or discomfort at the bite site
- Allergic reactions: In rare cases, children may develop allergic reactions to mosquito saliva, which can cause severe itching, hives, or even difficulty breathing
- Caution!
: If your child has a severe allergy to mosquito bites, they may experience an anaphylactic reaction. This is a medical emergency, and you should immediately take your baby to the ER
Anaphylactic Reaction
Symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction can include…
- Severe swelling (hives) on the skin
- Swelling of the tongue or mouth
- Trouble breathing
- Wheezing
- unconsciousness
- Extreme weakness
If your child experiences any of these symptoms, it is important to monitor them closely and seek medical attention. Mosquito bites in children cannot be taken lightly.
4 Ways to Prevent Mosquitoes
Preventing mosquito bites is essential to protect your child from the discomfort and potential health risks associated with these pesky insects. Here are four effective strategies:
Install Mosquito Screens
Use mosquito screens over your child’s bed and keep doors and windows closed during peak mosquito hours. Consider installing mosquito screens on windows, doors, balconies, patios, and porches to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
Use Insect Repellent
Apply a child-safe insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin to exposed skin. Follow the product instructions carefully and avoid applying it to the hands and face.
Dress appropriately
Cover your child’s skin with long sleeves, pants, and socks, especially during peak mosquito activity times. Light-coloured clothing can also help repel mosquitoes.
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Avoid bright-coloured clothes – Bright colours and flowery prints attract mosquitoes. Opt for muted clothing to minimise their interest
Clean Up and Declutter
Clean all sources of mosquitoes nearby, such as flower pots, balcony oasis, and kitchen containers. Mosquitoes and cockroaches are fond of stagnant water, an ideal breeding and fun ground for pesky pests.
Avoid Scented Products
Use non-fragrant detergents and soaps. Mosquitoes and other bugs are more attracted to sweet smells or perfumes.
Avoid Mosquito-Prone Areas
Stay away from areas with stagnant water, such as ponds, marshes, and puddles, where mosquitoes breed.
Keep Cool
Mosquitoes are attracted to sweat and odour, so keep your babies cool and hydrated to reduce the risk of bites. This is especially important for older children, who may sweat more.
You can reduce the risk of your child being bitten by mosquitoes and the associated health problems when you put these strategies into action.
Allergic Reactions and Emergency Symptoms
If you notice mosquito bites in babies and children that are much larger, it could indicate a severe allergic reaction. These reactions may also include.
- Large area of itching
- Lesions
- Bruises near the site of the bite
- Lymphangitis
- Hives at or around the bite
- Anaphylaxis
Risk Factors for Increased Mosquito Bites in Children
- Warmer body temperature
- Male more than female
- Children more than adults
- Breath odours
- Sweating
- Perfumed soaps and shampoos
When to Seek Medical Attention for Mosquito Bite
- Serious allergic reaction suspected. Immediate symptoms include difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Unconscious or not waking up
- Your child looks very sick
Why Choose Phifer?
#1 Mosquito Screens in India
As India’s most trusted brand, Phifer Mosquito Screens excels at combining aesthetics with functionality. Renowned for quality and reliability, their solutions effectively prevent insect-borne diseases, making them the top choice for protection and style.
- Quality and Durability: Phifer is known for producing high-quality screening products that are built to last.Their screens are made from durable materials and are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions
- Variety of Mosquito-Screening Options: Phifer offers a wide range of screening options to suit different needs and preferences, including insect screening, sun shading, and pet-resistant screening
- Functionality: Phifer is committed to innovation and is constantly developing new products and technologies to improve the performance and functionality of their screens
- Reputation: Phifer has a long-standing reputation for excellence in the screening industry and is trusted by homeowners, builders, and architects alike
- Customer Satisfaction: Phifer is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and satisfaction. They offer a variety of resources and support to help customers choose the right products and ensure proper installation