How Do I Prevent Mosquito Bites?
Spring rains may be great for flowers, but when warm weather follows, the damp environment creates ideal conditions for mosquitos to thrive. As we start to step into the summer months when mosquitos are at their peak, there are things you can do to protect yourself and others from getting bitten.
How to Prevent Getting Bitten
“Mosquitos can transmit diseases caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites that they may carry through a bite,” says Isaiah Ho MD, PIH Health family medicine physician in Cerritos.
You can protect yourself and reduce your chances of getting bitten by:
- Using Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellant with DEET as an active ingredient, concentrating the repellant on your ankles, feet, lower legs and wrists. Limit use on children and make sure to wash treated skin with soap and water after returning indoors.
- Wearing clothes that cover exposed skin, such as loose long-sleeved shirts and long pants
- Pouring out any standing water both indoors and outdoors where mosquitos can frequent and lay eggs. Make sure to empty and turn over toys, equipment, or containers that collect rainwater in your yard to prevent mosquitos from breeding.
- Using air conditioning while indoors, while making sure to keep windows and doors shut to prevent mosquitos from entering your home
Treatment for Mosquito Bites
To treat mosquito bites:
- Clean the bitten area with soap and water or rubbing alcohol.
- Apply first aid ointment to help prevent infection.
- Apply cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Avoid scratching the bitten area to prevent infection. Apply calamine lotion or 1% hydrocortisone cream to help relieve itching.
“Most mosquito bites stop itching and heal on their own in a few days,” says Dr. Ho. “If the bitten area doesn’t improve or if symptoms such as chills, fever, red streaks extending from the bite, or abscesses develop, call your doctor. If symptoms of a severe allergic reaction present, go to the emergency room or call 911 immediately.”
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