Mosquito bites in children are a common issue, especially during monsoon season. Hence why you might notice your child seems to be a mosquito magnet. It is not that bugs are more attracted to babies and toddlers, but they make an easy target as they may be oblivious to them. The aftermath? Itchy and painful red spots! Here are a few tips you can follow to prevent mosquito bites and minimize scratching.
Preventing mosquito bites in children
- Avoid going to mosquito-dense areas such as water ponds, gardens, and other play areas. Also, clear out mosquito breeding grounds by dumping out any stagnant water in your yard or around your house weekly.
- If you want to take your kid outside, wait until after dawn and head indoors before dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Use screens on doors and windows to keep mosquitoes and other flying insects at bay.
- If it is inevitable, dress your little one in a long-sleeve top and long pants.
- Keep mosquitoes away from your child while sleeping by using a mosquito net.
- Use insect repellent sparingly on the exposed skin of your child over the age of 2 months old. Prevent from spraying on your child's face and hands and do not reapply unless necessary. You may also spritz some on top of your child's clothes for added protection. If you are unsure if an insect repellant is okay for your little one, get your doctor to recommend one.
Soothing mosquito bites in children
- Use soap and water to clean the area.
- Apply ice to the area to prevent itching and swelling.
- Apply calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream to treat the bite.
- Discourage scratching as sharp fingernails can break the skin around the bite and allow bacteria in. Thus, always keep your child's fingernails short.
It is also important to watch out for symptoms of illness as mosquitoes can carry diseases. Symptoms may include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, or rashes. If your kid experiences any of these, consult with the doctor immediately and state that your child has recently been bitten.
Here are some mosquito repellents that you can find on Babydash.
Cloversoft Plant-based Mosquito Repellent Patch
