What is Skeeter Syndrome and how does it differ from normal mosquito bites. What causes this intense allergic reaction to mosquito saliva. How can you identify the symptoms of Skeeter Syndrome. What treatment options are available for managing severe mosquito bite reactions. How can you prevent Skeeter Syndrome and protect yourself from mosquito bites.

Understanding Skeeter Syndrome: More Than Just a Mosquito Bite

Skeeter Syndrome is a rare but severe allergic reaction to mosquito bites. While most people experience minor irritation from mosquito bites, those with Skeeter Syndrome develop an intense immune response to the proteins in mosquito saliva. This condition can cause significant discomfort and, in some cases, may require medical attention.

Is Skeeter Syndrome dangerous? While not typically life-threatening, Skeeter Syndrome can cause considerable distress and may lead to secondary complications if left untreated. The severe swelling and inflammation associated with this condition can be particularly problematic when bites occur near the eyes, mouth, or throat.

The Science Behind Mosquito Bites and Allergic Reactions

To understand Skeeter Syndrome, it’s essential to first grasp the mechanics of a typical mosquito bite. When a female mosquito bites, she injects saliva containing anticoagulants and other proteins into the skin. This saliva facilitates blood flow and prevents clotting, allowing the mosquito to feed more efficiently.

For most people, this process results in a small, itchy bump that resolves within a few days. However, individuals with Skeeter Syndrome have an overactive immune response to these mosquito saliva proteins, leading to more severe and prolonged symptoms.

The Role of Polypeptides in Skeeter Syndrome

The primary culprits behind Skeeter Syndrome are polypeptides found in mosquito saliva. These chains of amino acids trigger an intense allergic reaction in sensitive individuals. Interestingly, the composition of these polypeptides can vary between mosquito species, which explains why some people may react severely to bites from certain mosquito types but not others.

Why do some people develop Skeeter Syndrome while others don’t? The exact reasons are not fully understood, but factors such as genetics, previous exposure to mosquito bites, and overall immune system function likely play a role. Some individuals may become sensitized to mosquito saliva over time, developing more severe reactions with repeated exposures.

Identifying Symptoms of Skeeter Syndrome

Recognizing the symptoms of Skeeter Syndrome is crucial for proper management and treatment. While a typical mosquito bite may cause minor swelling and itching, Skeeter Syndrome produces a much more dramatic response.

• Intense swelling: The affected area may swell significantly, often much larger than a typical mosquito bite reaction.
• Redness and warmth: The skin around the bite becomes noticeably red and feels warm to the touch.
• Pain or soreness: Unlike typical mosquito bites, Skeeter Syndrome can cause considerable pain or tenderness in the affected area.
• Itching: Severe itching is common and may persist for days or even weeks.
• Fever: In some cases, individuals may develop a low-grade fever as part of the immune response.
• Lymph node swelling: The lymph nodes nearest to the bite site may become swollen and tender.

How quickly do Skeeter Syndrome symptoms appear? Symptoms typically develop within hours of the mosquito bite and may worsen over the next 24-48 hours. In severe cases, the reaction can last for several weeks.

Diagnosing Skeeter Syndrome: When to Seek Medical Attention

Diagnosing Skeeter Syndrome primarily relies on clinical observation and patient history. Healthcare providers will consider the severity and duration of symptoms, as well as the patient’s previous reactions to mosquito bites.

Should you see a doctor for suspected Skeeter Syndrome? It’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you experience any of the following:

• Extreme swelling that continues to worsen after 48 hours
• Signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or pus
• Fever or other systemic symptoms
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing, which may indicate a more severe allergic reaction

In some cases, an allergist may perform skin tests or blood tests to confirm mosquito bite hypersensitivity. However, these tests are not always necessary for diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Skeeter Syndrome

Managing Skeeter Syndrome involves addressing both the symptoms and the underlying allergic reaction. Treatment approaches may vary depending on the severity of the reaction and individual patient factors.

Over-the-Counter Remedies

For mild to moderate cases of Skeeter Syndrome, over-the-counter treatments can provide significant relief:

• Oral antihistamines: These can help reduce itching and inflammation.
• Topical corticosteroid creams: Applied directly to the affected area, these can help reduce swelling and itching.
• Oral pain relievers: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.

Prescription Treatments

For more severe cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe stronger treatments:

• Oral corticosteroids: These potent anti-inflammatory medications can rapidly reduce severe swelling and itching.
• Stronger topical corticosteroids: Prescription-strength creams may be more effective for severe localized reactions.
• Antibiotics: If there’s evidence of a secondary bacterial infection, antibiotics may be necessary.

How long does it take for Skeeter Syndrome to resolve with treatment? With appropriate treatment, symptoms often begin to improve within 24-48 hours. However, complete resolution may take several days to weeks, depending on the severity of the reaction.

Home Remedies and Self-Care for Skeeter Syndrome

In addition to medical treatments, several home remedies and self-care practices can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing:

1. Cold compresses: Applying a cold, damp cloth to the affected area can help reduce swelling and provide relief from itching.
2. Elevation: If the bite is on a limb, elevating the affected area can help reduce swelling.
3. Calamine lotion: This over-the-counter product can soothe itching and irritation.
4. Baking soda paste: A paste made from baking soda and water can help neutralize the bite and reduce itching when applied topically.
5. Avoiding scratching: While difficult, refraining from scratching can prevent further irritation and reduce the risk of secondary infection.

Are natural remedies effective for treating Skeeter Syndrome? While some natural remedies may provide symptomatic relief, they should not replace medical treatment for severe reactions. Always consult with a healthcare provider before relying solely on natural remedies, especially for severe symptoms.

Prevention Strategies: Minimizing Mosquito Bites

For individuals prone to Skeeter Syndrome, prevention is key. Implementing strategies to avoid mosquito bites can significantly reduce the risk of experiencing severe reactions.

Personal Protection Measures

• Use insect repellents: Products containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus are effective at repelling mosquitoes.
• Wear protective clothing: Long sleeves, pants, and socks can provide a physical barrier against mosquito bites.
• Avoid peak mosquito hours: Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk. Limit outdoor activities during these times when possible.
• Use mosquito nets: When sleeping outdoors or in areas without proper screening, mosquito nets can provide significant protection.

Environmental Control

Reducing mosquito populations in your immediate environment can also help prevent bites:

• Eliminate standing water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Remove or regularly empty containers that collect water around your property.
• Use mosquito-repelling plants: Certain plants like citronella, marigolds, and lavender may help repel mosquitoes when planted around outdoor living areas.
• Install or repair screens: Ensure that windows and doors have proper screens to keep mosquitoes out of living spaces.
• Consider professional pest control: In areas with high mosquito populations, professional mosquito control services may be beneficial.

Can mosquito repellent bracelets effectively prevent Skeeter Syndrome? While mosquito repellent bracelets may offer some protection, they are generally less effective than topical repellents applied directly to the skin. For individuals prone to severe reactions, it’s best to use a combination of prevention methods for maximum protection.

Long-Term Management and Outlook for Skeeter Syndrome

For individuals diagnosed with Skeeter Syndrome, long-term management focuses on prevention and early intervention. Working closely with healthcare providers, including allergists, can help develop an effective management plan.

Immunotherapy for Skeeter Syndrome

In some cases, immunotherapy (allergy shots) may be recommended for individuals with severe or frequent reactions to mosquito bites. This treatment involves gradually exposing the immune system to increasing amounts of mosquito saliva proteins, potentially reducing the severity of future reactions.

Is immunotherapy effective for all cases of Skeeter Syndrome? While immunotherapy can be beneficial for some individuals, its effectiveness can vary. It’s typically reserved for severe cases or those who experience frequent reactions despite other preventive measures.

Monitoring and Adapting

Living with Skeeter Syndrome often requires ongoing vigilance and adaptation:

• Keep a reaction diary: Tracking the severity and duration of reactions can help identify patterns and inform treatment decisions.
• Carry emergency medications: For individuals with severe reactions, carrying antihistamines or prescribed emergency medications is crucial.
• Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on new treatments and prevention strategies by maintaining regular contact with healthcare providers.

Can Skeeter Syndrome resolve on its own over time? While some individuals may experience a reduction in the severity of their reactions over time, Skeeter Syndrome does not typically resolve completely without intervention. However, with proper management and prevention strategies, many people can effectively control their symptoms and minimize the impact on their daily lives.

Research and Future Directions in Skeeter Syndrome Management

As our understanding of Skeeter Syndrome evolves, researchers continue to explore new avenues for prevention and treatment. Current areas of investigation include:

• Novel repellent technologies: Researchers are developing new, longer-lasting repellents that may provide enhanced protection against mosquito bites.
• Genetic factors: Studies are underway to identify genetic markers that may predispose individuals to Skeeter Syndrome, potentially leading to more targeted prevention and treatment strategies.
• Immunomodulatory therapies: New approaches to modulating the immune response to mosquito saliva proteins are being explored, which could lead to more effective treatments for severe reactions.
• Mosquito population control: Innovative methods for controlling mosquito populations, including genetic modification and targeted pesticides, may help reduce overall mosquito-human contact.

What promising treatments are on the horizon for Skeeter Syndrome? While specific breakthroughs are yet to be announced, ongoing research in immunology and allergy medicine continues to yield insights that may lead to improved treatments. Patients and healthcare providers should stay informed about emerging therapies and clinical trials that may offer new options for managing Skeeter Syndrome.

Living with Skeeter Syndrome: Practical Tips and Lifestyle Adjustments

For individuals diagnosed with Skeeter Syndrome, making certain lifestyle adjustments can significantly improve quality of life and reduce the frequency of severe reactions.

Travel Considerations

Traveling to mosquito-prone areas requires extra precautions:

• Research your destination: Be aware of the mosquito species and prevalent diseases in the area you’re visiting.
• Pack appropriately: Bring ample supplies of repellents, protective clothing, and any prescribed medications.
• Choose accommodations wisely: Opt for places with air conditioning and proper screening on windows and doors.
• Consider travel insurance: Ensure your policy covers potential medical needs related to Skeeter Syndrome.

Outdoor Activities and Hobbies

Enjoying outdoor activities while managing Skeeter Syndrome requires careful planning:

• Time your activities: Plan outdoor excursions during times when mosquito activity is lower.
• Choose appropriate locations: Opt for areas with less standing water and lower mosquito populations when possible.
• Prepare your environment: When camping or spending extended time outdoors, use mosquito netting and create mosquito-free zones with fans or repellent devices.

How can individuals with Skeeter Syndrome safely enjoy outdoor activities? With proper precautions and preparation, most outdoor activities can be enjoyed safely. The key is to remain vigilant, use multiple prevention strategies, and always have a plan for managing potential reactions.

Educating Others

Raising awareness about Skeeter Syndrome among friends, family, and colleagues can be beneficial:

• Explain the condition: Help others understand that Skeeter Syndrome is a serious allergic reaction, not just an overreaction to mosquito bites.
• Share your prevention strategies: Encouraging others to take mosquito prevention seriously can create a more supportive environment.
• Discuss emergency plans: Ensure that those close to you know how to recognize a severe reaction and what steps to take in an emergency.

By implementing these practical tips and making necessary lifestyle adjustments, individuals with Skeeter Syndrome can effectively manage their condition while maintaining an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Remember, each person’s experience with Skeeter Syndrome is unique, so it’s essential to work closely with healthcare providers to develop a personalized management plan.

Treating Swelling and Allergic Reactions to Spider and Insect Bites

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• What Are Insect Stings and Spider Bites?
• Insect and Spider Bite Symptoms
• Allergic Reactions to Stings and Bites

A sting happens when an insect injects venom into your skin. The venom travels through the bug’s stinger. 

If you get stung, you’ll feel pain. Your skin may turn red or swell at the site of the sting. In some cases, people who are allergic to the venom can have a life-threatening reaction. Doctors call this anaphylaxis.

Among the most common stinging insects are:

• Wasps (including hornets and yellow jackets)
• Bees
• Fire ants

An insect bite happens when a non-venomous bug pierces your skin and feeds on your blood. This may cause a bump (doctors call them “papules”) to form. The telltale sign is intense itching.

Examples of biting insects include:

• Mosquitoes
• Fleas
• Bedbugs
• Lice 

Ticks and some spiders also bite, but technically they are arachnids, not insects. Ticks feed on your blood, but spiders do not. Also, some spiders have venom.

You can have an allergic reaction to a bite. And bugs that carry disease pass it on through their bites. This is often the case with ticks (Lyme disease) and mosquitoes (malaria, Zika virus).

Most insect bites cause only minor irritation, with symptoms like swelling at the site of the bite or itching or burning. You might also feel numbness or tingling.

An insect bite happens when a non-venomous bug pierces your skin and feeds on your blood. A sting is what happens when an insect injects poison (venom) into your skin.

If you’ve been bitten by a venomous spider, you may notice any of the following:

• Intense pain at the site of the wound
• Stiffness or joint pain
• Muscle spasms
• Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting
• Fever or chills
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• A wound that spreads or turns into a sore (tissue around the wound might also die)
• Dizziness
• Difficulty speaking
• Convulsions

Insect stings and bites can cause severe allergic reactions. Doctors call this “anaphylaxis.” Rarely, a spider bite can cause an allergic reaction that doctors call “anaphylactic shock.” It can be fatal.

Call 911 if you have any of these symptoms:

• Rapid swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, or around the eyes
• Difficulty breathing
• Wheezing or hoarseness
• Severe itching, cramping, or numbness
• Dizziness
• A reddish rash or hives
• Stomach cramps
• Loss of consciousness

If you have any of these things and have epinephrine on hand, don’t hesitate to use it, even if you’re not sure your symptoms are caused by allergies. Using an auto-injector pen as a precaution won’t harm you.

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What you need to know about Skeeter Syndrome

Written by Irene Lopez

Medically Reviewed by Poonam Sachdev on April 28, 2022

• What Is Skeeter Syndrome?
• Causes
• Symptoms
• Diagnosis
• Treatment
• Prevention Tips
• Conclusion
• More

It’s common for a mosquito bite to cause a slight reaction on your skin. This reaction can worsen over the next 24 hours, but it usually gets better from then on, often clearing up within a week. 

More rarely, though, you may experience a more severe reaction called skeeter syndrome. Here’s what you need to know about this condition. 

Skeeter syndrome is diagnosed when you have a strong reaction to a mosquito bite. You may see a large area of swelling, soreness, redness, and itching or pain at the location of the bite. Such a reaction can develop within hours of the bite, and it may last for weeks. 

You may notice some redness and puffiness within a few minutes of the bite, followed by a red-brown bump showing up over the next two days. The bump is usually hard and itchy. Sometimes, you may get small blisters or small dark spots that look like an injury. 

You need to be in contact with a mosquito for at least six seconds for this type of reaction to take place.  

Skeeter syndrome is caused by the body’s reaction to polypeptides found in a female mosquito’s saliva. Polypeptides are chains of molecules called amino acids.

A female mosquito needs to feed on blood to produce eggs. Mosquitos use a mouthpart called a proboscis to pierce your skin and suck up the blood. While they suck blood, they also inject a small amount of saliva into your body because the saliva contains a substance that stops the blood from clotting. Male mosquitos don’t bite humans. 

Skeeter syndrome is rare, but some people are more likely to get it than others.

• Babies and children, as they have lower immunity. 
• Adults bitten by a species of mosquito they’ve not come in contact with before. Polypeptides can differ from one mosquito species to the next. A person can have Skeeter syndrome from getting bitten by one species but have no reaction to a bite from another species.
• People who have an immune system disorder. That’s the system that protects your body from infections. 

If you’ve had several mosquito bites, you become less sensitive to the saliva, so severe types of reactions like Skeeter syndrome are not very common.   

A large area of swelling, soreness, and redness with pain or itchiness is common in a severe reaction. In addition, you may become feverish. Skeeter syndrome symptoms can also include hives, a type of skin rash. Your lymph nodes, parts of your immune system, may also get swollen. 

Your primary care physician or doctor can assess whether you have skeeter syndrome by looking at the affected area on your skin. There is no blood test to check for the syndrome, so your doctor will usually arrive at their diagnosis after finding out if a mosquito has bitten you.

Your doctor will want to know your symptoms and how long you’ve been having them before they suggest a treatment plan. They will also check your medical history and ask about medicines, vitamins, supplements, and any other form of treatments you’re taking currently.

Skeeter syndrome treatment usually involves oral antihistamines and topical steroid creams.

Oral antihistamines are a class of drugs used to treat the symptoms of allergies. They are taken through the mouth. Topical steroid creams are creams, lotions, or ointments containing steroids that help fight inflammation in the body. These are to be applied to your skin near the site of the infection. Sometimes, your doctor may ask you to take oral steroids.

Avoid scratching your bites as that can lead to an infection. 

There are several different things you can do to help prevent mosquito bites: 

Use insect repellants. Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellants. As long as you follow the product label instructions, they should be safe and work well for pregnant and breastfeeding women. You will always want to follow the instructions, though, to ensure safe application.

An EPA registration can tell you that the repellent has had its effectiveness confirmed. It can be unclear how effective natural insect repellants or non-registered ones are.

Avoid using insect repellants containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD) on children under 3 years of age. Avoid applying insect repellent on your child’s hands, mouth, and eyes. You will also want to avoid applying it to any cuts or open infections that your child has.

Cover your body. Use long-sleeved tops and long pants to protect your body from bites. Thicker clothing can be harder for mosquitos to bite through.

Treat your wearables. Treat your clothes and even things like boots, mosquito nets, or the tents you’re sleeping in with a 0.5% solution of an insecticide called Permethrin. Permethrin can kill mosquitos on contact. You can also buy clothes that have been treated with Permethrin for when you’re traveling.

Avoid applying Permethrin directly on your skin.

Use mosquito nets and screen guards. Use mosquito nets in hotel rooms with no air conditioning or on occasions when you’re sleeping outside. Use protective screen guards for your doors and windows. Follow up with indoor pesticides if you’ve had mosquitos or use the services of a professional pest control professional.

Use air conditioning as much as possible when you’re indoors.

Manage areas that hold water. You may have water features or areas that hold water both inside and outside your home, like buckets, pools, flowerpots, birdbaths, or trash containers. Empty these containers once a week and clean and scrub them from the inside out.

Fill tree holes so they don’t get clogged with water. Also, repair cracks and holes in your septic tank if you have one. Cover open vents and plumbing pipes.

Clear out areas that are damp and humid like the inside of your closets, the space under your sinks, or your laundry room.

Skeeter syndrome is rare. Call your doctor if you suspect that you have skeeter syndrome or if your mosquito bite symptoms are getting worse. Follow best practices both indoors and outdoors to prevent mosquito bites and safeguard your health. 

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Bed bugs painlessly bite exposed skin at night and are rarely noticed by victims. Bites usually occur on the face, neck, and hands. Skin reactions to bed bug bites vary from person to person depending on their individual response. Some people do not react, and the only sign of a bite is a small dot. It has been observed that older people are less likely to experience skin reactions than younger people.

The classic appearance of a bug bite is an erythematous papule or blister 2-5 mm in size with a central hemorrhagic puncture. Itching is common.

Some patients have asymptomatic purple spots at bite sites. Bullous reactions sometimes occur. Sometimes bed bug bites can present as papular urticaria or mimic urticaria.

Skin reactions may occur on waking or one to several days after bites. Sometimes the skin reaction appears with a delay of up to 10 days.

The linear course of bites is often indicative of bedbug bites, but is not a strictly obligatory sign.

Bed bug bites usually disappear on their own within one week

Sometimes bed bug bites can become secondarily infected, causing impetigo or cellulitis, in which case see a doctor immediately. Treatment of such complications can take several weeks.

The most reliable sign of a bedbug bite is the presence of bedbugs in the victim’s environment. Most often, bedbugs live in cracks and crevices of mattresses, pillows, bed frames and other structures.

The causative agents of some diseases were found in bedbugs, such as hepatitis B virus resistant to methicillin, Staphylococcus aureus and others, however, clinical transmission of these diseases to humans has not been identified.

Appointment with a general practitioner

For more details, consult a qualified specialist at the Family Clinic.

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Labels BitingTherapist

how they look on the human body with a photo and how to treat them

Bedbugs are quite tenacious and dangerous insects. Scientists have long proven that these blood-sucking parasites can be carriers of various infections, including brucellosis, tularemia, Chagas disease, and even hepatitis ¹ . Also, approximately 80% of people have allergic reactions to bedbug bites ¹ .

During the bite, the bug secretes an enzyme that prevents blood clotting, but you may not even feel the bite itself. This is due to the physiology of the creature: otherwise the bug runs the risk of being “caught”.

There is a strong opinion that bed bugs, including bed bugs, can appear in conditions of uncleanliness, among numerous dirty and unwashed things, and this is partly true. One of the common reasons for the appearance of these harmful insects is migration from already infected apartments. Bedbugs (or their larvae) can come to your house on neighbors, on their clothes, books, household items and animal hair (for example, street). So, if you find a bed bug in your house, this does not necessarily mean that you do not care enough about the order in the house. 9Bed bugs we breed they are most often found on old clothes, in unsanitary conditions, furniture, mattresses, bedding ² What bites look like usually in the form of a “path” of small red dots on the body How bedbug bites can be dangerous reactions to bedbug bites can be nausea, muscle spasms, severe itching, redness and peeling of the skin, fear of sleep

What bedbug bites look like on the human body?

Almost immediately after a bug bite, blisters, redness and swelling appear on the skin, which are accompanied by itching, irritation, swelling. Most often, bites can be found on the legs, shoulders, back, neck – they look like dense red dots up to 1 mm in diameter, which form a “track” ³ .

Photo: shutterstock.com

If scratched, bites can turn into large bright red and sometimes bleeding spots ³ . Also, traces of blood may remain on a person’s bed linen and clothing, coinciding with bite sites.

Bed bug bites. Photo: commons.wikimedia.org, Oliver Arend

How to treat bedbug bites

According to disinfectologist Nikolai Dubinin , bedbug bites are dangerous and painful, and also cause severe itching. To get rid of discomfort, you can apply something cold to the bite site, for example, ice. A compress with a solution of soda (about half a teaspoon per glass of water) is also suitable, or treat the bite site with an antihistamine cream or ointment, a special balm after bites ³ .

What are the consequences of bed bug bites?

Transmission of pathogens by bedbug bites is possible in theory in foci of infectious diseases, but in practice this has not yet been proven. Bed bug bites can be life-threatening and cause severe allergic reactions. After the bite, papules form, painful blisters that appear either immediately after the bite, or after 10-40 minutes. The severity of edema may increase, accompanied by severe itching and hyperemia.

Popular questions and answers

The most popular questions about bed bug bites are answered by sanitary doctor, epidemiologist, disinfectologist, pest control expert Nikolai Dubinin.

Who is most often bitten by bed bugs?

– Period of activity of parasites – at night. Most often, bed bugs bite people in bed, and turning on the light will not help to avoid bites. Given a choice, bed bugs will choose tender skin that is easier to bite through, such as women and children ² . However, this does not mean at all that bedbugs do not bite men. Bedbugs bite all people, regardless of gender and age.

Bed bugs also prefer drunk people. The fact is that under the influence of alcohol, the human body releases more sweat and hormones that attract attention and whet the appetite of insects.

How many times does a bug bite a night?

– Bed bug bites are popularly called “breakfast, lunch and dinner” because they bite exactly three times. But there is more. If there is only one bite, most likely it was not an adult that bit, but a larva, which needs a smaller amount of blood to saturate.

Who doesn’t get bitten by bed bugs?

– Bed bugs choose a host with thinner and smoother skin, however, they bite absolutely all warm-blooded.

How to treat bedbug bites?

– Treatment after bedbug bites is prescribed depending on the clinical condition of the patient. Local allergic reactions can be treated on an outpatient basis, with the appointment of local or general therapy. The bite site is cooled, topical glucocorticosteroid agents are used, including combined ones, which contain an antibiotic and an antifungal agent. Such drugs help reduce itching, increase swelling and prevent the spread of infection.

How to protect yourself from bedbug bites?

– If you are a victim of bedbugs in your home, the best option to get rid of them once and for all is to have the entire room professionally disinfected. You need to disinfect the house, even if you find only one insect, because they multiply quite quickly. In addition, essential oils will help scare away bedbugs (they can be applied to the body before going to bed), perfume lotions with a pronounced aroma.

To prevent your home from becoming attractive to small parasites, it is recommended to regularly check furniture, mattresses, things for the presence of insects, monitor the condition of pets (especially those who are most often on the street), carry out regular wet cleaning in the house, be sure to move furniture, because you may not know about the presence of bedbug nests.

In addition, bedbugs do not like high temperatures (over 60°C), so upholstered furniture can be steamed regularly.

Sources:

1. Roslavtseva SA Modern distribution of bed bugs in the world (literature review) // Hygiene and sanitation. 2020. №3. https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/sovremennoe-rasprostranenie-postelnyh-klopov-v-mire-obzor-literatury
2. Bed bugs.