How To Tell If Your Baby Is Allergic To Mosquito Bites

How To Tell If Your Baby Is Allergic To Mosquito Bites

25 Jul 2022 | 3 min Read

Reema Shah

Author | 740 Articles

Mosquitoes aren’t going to ignore your little one’s delicate skin just because your baby is so small. Thus, this means that it is common for mosquitoes to bite your munchkin. But what if your baby is allergic to mosquito bites?

What Does a Mosquito Bite Look Like?

Insect bites in babies and older kids are common during childhood. But how is a mosquito bite different from other insect bites? Mosquito bites usually cause a stinging sensation, with a red and circular mound. It is similar to a hive and feels itchy with a small puncture in the centre.

How To Tell If Your Baby Is Allergic to Mosquito Bites

A severe symptom of a mosquito bite is referred to as skeeter syndrome. It can affect both kids and adults. When bitten by a mosquito, the human body treats the saliva as an allergen and then releases the histamine into the bitten area. The histamine released in the affected area causes swelling and itching.

allergic reaction
To protect your baby, keep the windows closed during the monsoons or warm weather when mosquito bites are common / Credit – Canva

Some parents have concerns as to when to worry about a mosquito bite on their baby or toddler. If your baby is allergic to mosquito bites, they might have an anaphylactic reaction which is very rare. It includes symptoms such as

  • Trouble breathing
  • Unconsciousness or weakness 
  • Extreme swelling and hives on the skin
  • Swelling of the tongue or mouth
  • Wheezing

Treatment for Mosquito Bites

  • Use mosquito repellent spray or patches that are safe to use on the baby’s skin
  • Use a topical after-bite roll-on or lotion
  • When it comes to preventing skeeter syndrome, you’ll want to follow the basic rules for avoiding mosquito bites in your little one during the summertime. Needless to say,  you will have to be a bit more careful if you know your baby often has a severe reaction to mosquito bites. 
  • Use bug spray that contains DEET. However, The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says insect repellents should not contain more than 30 per cent DEET when used on children. Plus, they are also not recommended for use on babies younger than 2 months of age.
  • Cover your little one’s body with light-coloured clothing
  • Avoid letting your child go outdoors at dusk and dawn when the mosquitoes are most active.
  • Try using citronella and other natural repellants. There are many other natural ways to keep your baby away from mosquitoes.

If you think your baby is allergic to mosquito bites, you can get him or her tested as your healthcare provider will be able to guide you. However, by following the safety measures, you can keep your little one safe. 

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