Mosquito bites are usually mild and heal in a few hours or days, but they can be painful and itchy. Mosquito bites in babies are common, and they are commonly mistaken for a rash. The insect can be a carrier or vector of several pathogens, leading to illnesses and inducing allergic reactions (1) (2). To avoid this, you must know how to recognize the signs of a mosquito bite on a baby and keep the baby from getting bitten. This post covers all you need to know about mosquito bites, including recognizing them in babies and steps to protect them.
What Are The Symptoms Of A Mosquito Bite In Babies?
A baby bitten by a mosquito usually present the following signs (3): Symptoms are also most likely to emerge in peak mosquito breeding seasons, such as monsoons or immediately after it. If a mosquito bites your baby, the first thing to do is reduce the irritation.
What Are The Home Remedies For Mosquito Bites In Babies?
You can observe the following measures to relieve pain and itchiness caused by a mosquito bite on a baby: Application of honey, garlic paste, or vanilla essence on the mosquito bite may also soothe the bite area. However, there is no scientific evidence backing these remedies or how they affect the baby’s skin. Mosquito bites can also cause problems other than bumps or redness on the skin. So, the first step is to try and prevent mosquito bites in babies.
How To Prevent Mosquito Bites In Babies?
Protecting your baby from mosquitoes is quite easy. Here are some ways to prevent mosquito bites in babies: Use the net during the baby’s naps and nighttime sleep. Mosquito nets are effective and a safer option for delicate newborns. Dress them in full sleeves and trousers. Cover the baby’s hands with mittens or gloves to prevent mosquito bites on hands. But sometimes, even preventive clothing may not be able to prevent mosquito bites. Therefore, it is good to apply mosquito repellent on exposed skin before stepping out of the house. Prevention is always better than cure. So, it is good to prevent mosquito bites as they might lead to some health complications if not acted upon promptly.
What Are The Complications Of Mosquito Bites In Babies?
The following problems arise as a direct result of a mosquito bite: Spotting complications of a mosquito bite well in time can help you get prompt medical attention.
When To Visit A Doctor For A Baby’s Mosquito Bite?
If you notice the following symptoms after a mosquito bite, then take the baby to the doctor (11):
Severe swelling for more than a day at the part of the body affected with a mosquito bite. Severe reddening of a large section of skin surrounding the mosquito bite. Blistering – formation of liquid-filled bumps. Bleeding and draining of liquid from the bump. Development of pus – yellowish liquid oozes from the mosquito bite bump. Swelling around the eye or eyelids in case the bite was skin around the eye. The baby displays swelling in the neck muscles. Trouble feeding, lethargy, and fever.
Is There A Treatment For Mosquito Bite?
Yes, and it varies. Here are the various treatment options: Mosquito bites seldom require extensive medical attention unless they lead to severe problems. Preventing a mosquito bite can be a better way to keep your baby safe.
