Soothing the Sting: Treating Mosquito Bites on Kids After Camp

As parents eagerly await their children’s return from summer camp, they often bring home some unwelcome souvenirs: mosquito bites. These itchy, red bumps can turn a happy homecoming into an uncomfortable experience. With the right approach, you can easily treat these pesky bites and help your child feel better in no time.

Mosquito bites are a common nuisance for children returning from summer camp. Here’s how to provide relief:

1. Clean the area: Wash the bite with soap and cool water to remove dirt and bacteria.
2. Apply a cold compress: This reduces swelling and soothes itching.
3. Use calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream: These over-the-counter products can relieve itching and inflammation. Use two times a day until the itch is gone.
4. Try natural remedies: Applying a paste of baking soda and water can help soothe bites.
5. Prevent scratching: Trim your child’s nails and consider using anti-itch bandages to cover the bites. Scratching can lead to infection and delayed healing.
6. Oral antihistamines: If itching is severe, consult your pediatrician or dermatologist about using children’s antihistamines.
7. Monitor for allergic reactions: Although rare, watch for signs of severe swelling, especially in the face, difficulty breathing, or hives.

Remember, prevention is key for future outings. Mosquito bites can cause more than annoying symptoms; they can also be carriers of certain viruses and parasites. Use insect repellent and dress children in long sleeves and pants when in mosquito-prone areas.

Preventing Mosquito Bites: Keeping Kids Safe

1. Use appropriate insect repellents:
   • Choose EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone, which are all approved by the CDC
   • For children, use repellents with 10-30% DEET. Avoid DEET products on infants under 2 months.
   • Do not use repellents with OLE or PMD on children under 3 years of age to avoid potential allergic reactions.
   • Apply repellent to exposed skin and clothing, but not under clothing.
   • Don’t apply repellents to cuts, wounds, or irritated skin.
   • Wash your hands after applying to prevent accidental ingestion or eye exposure.
2. Dress protectively:
   • Opt for light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
   • Cover up with long sleeves, long pants, and socks.
   • Consider treating clothes with permethrin for added protection.
3. Time outdoor activities wisely:
   • Limit outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours (typically dawn and dusk).
   • If outside during these times, take extra precautions.
4. Create a mosquito-unfriendly environment:
   • Remove standing water around your home where mosquitoes breed.
   • Keep lawns mowed and trim bushes.
   • Use mosquito netting over strollers and infant carriers.
5. Use physical barriers:
   • Ensure window and door screens are in good repair.
   • Consider using bed nets in areas with high mosquito populations.
6. Natural repellents:
   • Plant mosquito-repelling plants like citronella, marigolds, or lavender around outdoor areas.
   • Use citronella candles or torches during outdoor gatherings.
7. Educate children:
   • Teach kids about the importance of using repellent and wearing protective clothing.
   • Make applying repellent a routine before outdoor activities.

1. Take caution with SPF:
   • Avoid using combined sunscreen and insect repellent products. Instead, apply sunscreen first, followed by repellent.
   • When using DEET-containing repellents, reapply sunscreen more often since SPF effectiveness decreases.

Conclusion

While mosquito bites are a common annoyance, they don’t have to spoil your child’s post-camp glow. By following these simple steps, you can provide quick relief and prevent complications. Remember, each child may react differently to bites, so it’s important to pay attention to their specific needs and consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns. With proper care, those itchy reminders of camp adventures will soon fade, leaving only the happy memories behind.

Book an appointment on our website or give our office a call at 203-538-5682 to schedule your annual checkup/screening.