Insect bites are irritating, but they usually begin to resolve within 1-2 days and do not require a doctor’s treatment. To relieve the itching caused by mosquito, fly, flea, and bedbug bites, apply a cool compress, calamine lotion, or over the counter hydrocortisone cream on any part of your child’s body except the areas around her eyes or genitals. If your child is stung by a bee, wasp, or fire ant, you can also (believe it or not) place a cut onion on top of the sting with significant relief. Anti-histamines may also be of benefit, but if you have a child under age 6, please contact us for dosing.

It is very important to remove a bee stinger quickly, if it is still embedded in the skin, in order to prevent further venom from entering the skin. Gently scrape it off horizontally with a credit card or your fingernail. Avoid tweezers, as this may squeeze more venom into the wound. The swollen area may increase in size for 2-3 days after a bee sting or mosquito bite.

You should keep your child’s fingernails short to minimize the risk of infection from scratching. If infection does occur, the bite will become more red, larger, and more swollen. You may also notice red streaks or pus. You should have your child evaluated promptly if signs of infection are noted.

Call 911 immediately if your child has any of the following symptoms after being stung (these are signs of anaphylaxis):

• Difficulty breathing – shortness of breath, rapid breathing, significant coughing, hoarseness, etc
• Weakness, dizziness, cool / clammy skin, fainting, or unconsciousness
• Hives or itching all over the body
• Extreme swelling near the eyes, lips, or penis that make it difficult for your child to see, drink, or urinate
• Vomiting

If your child has had an anaphylactic reaction in the past, you should carry your epinephrine kit with you at all times. If your child is stung, use the epinephrine immediately and call 911 - Do not wait for the above listed signs of anaphylaxis! If your child goes to an ER or urgent care for a significant reaction, be sure to make a follow up visit with us. Consulting an allergist for possible venom immunotherapy is an option for those with a history of anaphylaxis. Parents should make sure teachers, the school nurse, camp counselors, coaches, and other care providers know of the child’s allergy.

• Mosquitoes - found near water and attracted by bright colors and sweat. Bites cause stinging sensation followed by a small, red, itchy mound. In young children, the bite can get large and even cause a bruise.
• Biting flies – found near food, garbage, animal waste. Bites cause painful, itchy bumps that can turn into small blisters. Usually resolves within 1-2 days.
• Bedbugs – found in cracks in walls, floors, bed frames / crevices of furniture. Bites cause itchy red bumps, often 2-3 in a line and often occur at night. They are less active in cold weather.
• Fire Ants – cause immediate pain, burning, and are very itchy. Swelling can be significant and a cloudy fluid bubble often occurs centrally.
• Fleas – found on the floor, in rugs, and are most likely to be problematic in homes with pets. Bites usually occur in clusters or lines, often where clothes fit tightly (waist/buttocks).
• Bees / Wasps / Yellow Jackets / Hornets – found near flowers, shrubs, picnic areas or beaches. Stings cause immediate pain and rapid swelling. Anaphylaxis can ensue, if previously stung (see above).
• Ticks – found in wooded areas. When attempting to remove a tick, grasp the tick near the head with tweezers and gently pull the tick straight out. Do not use matches, lit cigarettes, or nail pail remover.