How do bed bug bites look on humans. What are the common symptoms of bed bug bites. Can bed bug bites be dangerous for health. How to differentiate between bed bug bites and flea bites. What are effective ways to prevent and treat bed bug bites.

Understanding Bed Bug Bites: Appearance and Characteristics

Bed bugs are tiny, blood-sucking insects that can cause significant discomfort through their bites. These nocturnal pests feed on human blood, leaving behind telltale signs of their presence. But how can you identify bed bug bites?

Bed bug bites typically appear as small, flat, or raised areas on the skin. They often become inflamed, itchy, red, or blistered. One distinctive characteristic is that these bites frequently occur in clusters or lines, reflecting the feeding pattern of bed bugs as they move across the skin.

The location of bites can provide valuable clues. Bed bugs tend to target exposed areas of skin during sleep, such as:

• Hands
• Neck
• Face
• Shoulders
• Arms
• Legs

It’s important to note that bed bug bite reactions can vary significantly between individuals. Some people may develop noticeable symptoms within hours, while others might not react for several days or at all.

The Science Behind Bed Bug Bites

Understanding the mechanism of bed bug bites can help in identifying and managing infestations. How exactly do bed bugs feed on humans?

Bed bugs possess elongated beaks that they use to pierce human skin and extract blood. During this process, they inject an anti-coagulant along with their saliva. This substance prevents blood clotting, allowing the bed bugs to feed for up to 10 minutes at a time.

The anti-coagulant is primarily responsible for the body’s reaction to the bite. It determines the size and intensity of the bite mark, which can vary based on an individual’s sensitivity. Repeated exposure to bed bug bites may alter a person’s reaction over time, either intensifying or diminishing the response.

Factors Influencing Bite Appearance

Several factors can influence the appearance and size of bed bug bites:

1. Individual sensitivity to the bed bug’s saliva
2. Number of times a person has been bitten
3. Location of the bite on the body
4. Overall health and immune system function

Common Symptoms of Bed Bug Bites

Recognizing the symptoms of bed bug bites is crucial for early detection and treatment. What are the most common signs to watch out for?

The primary symptoms of bed bug bites include:

• Itchy, red welts on the skin
• Swelling around the bite area
• A burning sensation at the bite site
• Raised, red bumps or flat welts on the skin
• Bites arranged in a line or zigzag pattern

In some cases, individuals may develop more severe reactions, such as:

• Pronounced swelling
• Painful burning sensation
• Fluid-filled blisters
• Fever or flu-like symptoms (in rare cases)

It’s important to remember that symptoms can vary widely between individuals. Some people may show no visible signs of bites, while others may have severe reactions.

Potential Health Risks Associated with Bed Bug Bites

While bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases directly to humans, their bites can pose certain health risks. Are bed bug bites dangerous?

In most cases, bed bug bites are more of a nuisance than a serious health concern. However, there are potential complications to be aware of:

• Secondary infections: Excessive scratching of bites can lead to skin breaks, potentially causing secondary bacterial infections.
• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience severe allergic reactions to bed bug bites, requiring medical attention.
• Sleep disturbances: The presence of bed bugs and their bites can cause anxiety and sleep problems, affecting overall well-being.
• Anemia: In extreme cases of severe, long-term infestations, repeated bites may lead to anemia, especially in children or individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

Certain groups may be more vulnerable to complications from bed bug bites, including:

• Children
• Elderly individuals
• People with weakened immune systems
• Bedridden individuals

Differentiating Bed Bug Bites from Other Insect Bites

Distinguishing bed bug bites from other insect bites can be challenging, but it’s crucial for proper treatment and pest control. How can you tell the difference between bed bug bites and flea bites?

While bed bug and flea bites may appear similar at first glance, there are several key differences:

Bed Bug Bites

• Often appear in clusters or lines
• Typically found on exposed skin areas during sleep
• May not be immediately noticeable or itchy
• Can occur anywhere on the body

Flea Bites

• Usually appear as small, red dots
• Often found around ankles and lower legs
• Tend to be immediately itchy
• May have a red “halo” around the bite center

Other distinguishing factors include the presence of other signs of infestation. Bed bugs may leave behind fecal spots, shed skins, and a sweet, musty odor. Fleas, on the other hand, are more likely to be spotted jumping on carpets or furniture.

Prevention and Control of Bed Bug Infestations

Preventing bed bug infestations is crucial to avoid the discomfort and potential health risks associated with their bites. What are some effective strategies for bed bug prevention and control?

• Regular inspections: Routinely check your bedding, furniture, and luggage for signs of bed bugs.
• Protective covers: Use bed bug-proof encasements for mattresses and box springs.
• Reduce clutter: Minimize hiding spots for bed bugs by keeping your living space tidy.
• Vacuum frequently: Regular vacuuming can help remove bed bugs and their eggs.
• Be cautious when traveling: Inspect hotel rooms and keep luggage off the floor.
• Wash and dry clothes on high heat: This can kill bed bugs and their eggs on fabric items.

If you suspect a bed bug infestation, it’s important to act quickly. Consider these steps:

1. Confirm the presence of bed bugs through thorough inspection.
2. Isolate infested items to prevent spread.
3. Clean and treat infested areas using appropriate methods.
4. Consider professional pest control services for severe infestations.

Treatment Options for Bed Bug Bites

While bed bug bites often resolve on their own, various treatment options can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. How can you effectively treat bed bug bites?

Here are some common treatment methods for bed bug bites:

• Wash the affected area with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.
• Apply a cold compress or ice pack to reduce swelling and numb the skin.
• Use over-the-counter anti-itch creams or ointments containing hydrocortisone.
• Take oral antihistamines to relieve itching and inflammation.
• Apply natural remedies like aloe vera or tea tree oil for soothing relief.

For more severe reactions or persistent symptoms, consider seeking medical attention. A healthcare professional may prescribe stronger anti-itch creams or oral medications if needed.

When to Seek Medical Help

While most bed bug bites can be treated at home, there are instances when professional medical care is necessary. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or severe swelling
• Symptoms of infection, including increased pain, redness, or warmth around the bites
• Fever or flu-like symptoms following bed bug bites
• Blisters or skin breakdown at the bite sites

Impact of Bed Bugs on Pets

While bed bugs primarily feed on human blood, they can also affect our furry companions. Do bed bugs bite dogs or cats?

Yes, bed bugs can bite dogs and cats, although they prefer human hosts. The bites on pets may look similar to those on humans, often appearing as small, red, raised bumps. However, due to fur coverage, these bites may be less noticeable on animals.

Signs that your pet may be experiencing bed bug bites include:

• Excessive scratching or biting at their skin
• Visible red bumps or welts on areas with less fur
• Restlessness, especially at night
• Unexplained small blood spots on their bedding

To protect your pets from bed bugs:

1. Regularly inspect and clean their bedding
2. Groom your pets frequently, watching for signs of bites
3. Treat your entire home if you suspect a bed bug infestation
4. Consider using pet-safe bed bug repellents or treatments

Psychological Effects of Bed Bug Infestations

The impact of bed bug infestations extends beyond physical discomfort. What are the potential psychological effects of dealing with bed bugs?

Bed bug infestations can have significant psychological consequences, including:

• Anxiety and stress related to the presence of bugs and potential bites
• Sleep disturbances due to fear of being bitten
• Social isolation stemming from embarrassment or fear of spreading the infestation
• Depression related to the challenges of eradicating the pests
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in severe cases

Coping strategies for the psychological impact of bed bugs include:

1. Seeking support from friends, family, or support groups
2. Practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation or deep breathing
3. Focusing on proactive steps to address the infestation
4. Considering professional counseling if symptoms persist

Myths and Facts About Bed Bugs

Misinformation about bed bugs can lead to ineffective prevention and treatment strategies. What are some common myths about bed bugs, and what’s the truth behind them?

Myth: Bed bugs only infest dirty homes

Fact: Bed bugs can thrive in any environment, regardless of cleanliness. They are attracted to warmth, blood, and carbon dioxide, not dirt.

Myth: Bed bugs transmit diseases

Fact: While bed bugs are a nuisance, there is no evidence that they transmit diseases to humans.

Myth: Bed bugs can fly

Fact: Bed bugs cannot fly. They crawl quickly but do not have wings.

Myth: Bed bugs are too small to see

Fact: Adult bed bugs are visible to the naked eye, about the size of an apple seed.

Myth: Bed bugs only come out at night

Fact: While bed bugs are primarily nocturnal, they will emerge during the day if hungry and a food source is available.

Understanding these facts can help in developing more effective strategies for prevention and control of bed bug infestations.

Legal and Social Implications of Bed Bug Infestations

Bed bug infestations can have far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate discomfort they cause. What are some of the legal and social implications of bed bug problems?

Legal Implications

• Tenant rights and landlord responsibilities in rental properties
• Liability issues in hotels and other hospitality settings
• Disclosure requirements when selling infested properties
• Workplace safety concerns in affected businesses

Social Implications

• Stigma associated with bed bug infestations
• Impact on personal relationships and social interactions
• Economic consequences for affected businesses
• Public health concerns in communal living spaces

To address these issues, many jurisdictions have implemented specific laws and regulations regarding bed bug infestations. It’s important to be aware of local regulations and seek legal advice if necessary.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Bed Bug Control

As bed bug infestations continue to pose challenges worldwide, researchers are exploring new methods for prevention and control. What are some promising areas of research in bed bug management?

• Development of more effective and environmentally friendly pesticides
• Exploration of biological control methods, such as fungal agents
• Advancements in early detection technologies, including pheromone traps and AI-powered monitoring systems
• Research into bed bug behavior and physiology to identify new vulnerabilities
• Investigation of genetic approaches to bed bug control

These research directions hold promise for more efficient and sustainable bed bug management strategies in the future. However, it’s important to note that current best practices, including vigilant prevention and prompt treatment of infestations, remain crucial in the fight against bed bugs.

Bed Bug Bites on Humans | Get Rid of Bed Bugs

Bed bug crawling on hand

Bed bugs feed on blood as their only source of nutrition. In order to mature into adults, they must feed once during each of their immature stages. Adult females also need blood in order to produce eggs. Although bedbugs do bite humans, they are not known to transmit diseases to people.

What do bed bug bites look like?

Blood spots found on one’s sheets, bites and the presence of bed bug feces and cast skins are some of the indications of a bed bug infestation. Bites are commonly found on the parts of the body that are more likely to be exposed to bed bugs during sleep – the hands, neck, face, shoulders, legs and arms. While not always the case, bed bug bites are often grouped together in a small area and at times may occur in a line or a zigzag pattern. Bites normally look like small, flat or raised areas that may become inflamed, itchy, red or blistered. Bed bug bite reactions don’t always appear immediately after you’re bitten and may take a few days to begin causing symptoms. However, not everyone reacts to bed bug bites in the same manner.

The size of bed bug bites varies with a number of different factors. Bed bugs inject an anti-coagulant along with their saliva when they pierce the skin to take a blood meal. This anti-coagulant is mostly responsible for how a person reacts to the bite and determines the size of the bug’s bite. Since people will have various sensitivities to the bed bug’s bite, the size of the bite will vary, as well. Another factor that influences the size of a bed bug reaction is the number of times a person is bitten. Bite reactions of people bitten many times are also variable, and their response may be either more or less intense as the number of bites increases.

Bed bug bites on skin

Bed bugs pierce human skin with elongated beaks through which they extract blood. Bed bug bites are not initially painful and can go unnoticed for hours or days. This allows bed bugs to withdraw human blood for up to 10 minutes with each feeding. Bed bug bites occur most commonly on exposed skin, such as the upper body, neck, arms and shoulders.

Symptoms of Bed Bug Bites

Some individuals who are bitten by bed bugs develop itching, red welts or swelling the day after being bitten. However, bites may not become obvious for several days or at all on some individuals. Many people do not react at all to the bite of a bed bug—many bites leave no mark and go completely unnoticed.

Unlike those of other insects, bed bug bites may sometimes appear in tight lines of multiple, small, red marks where multiple bed bugs have fed along an exposed area. Bed bug bites can cause itchiness. Initially, a victim may detect a slight burning sensation. The burning area then develops red bumps, known as papules or wheals (rash). In extreme cases, bites may swell dramatically or turn into blister-like skin inflammations.

If you develop a rash after being bitten by a bed bug, avoid scratching the affected area. If the rash persists or becomes infected, contact a medical professional immediately.

How do bed bugs bite?

Bed bugs are blood feeders that depend on blood for their food source, so they must consume blood for survival.

One bed bug will usually take more than one bite. Once a bed bug inserts its mouthparts and finds a suitable blood vessel, it will begin feeding. However, finding the right blood vessel may take more than one injection into the skin. In addition, bed bugs are very sensitive to movement by the host they are feeding on. Therefore, if a sleeping person moves, a feeding bed bug will probably withdraw its mouthparts and begin its search for a blood meal on another part of the body. It’s important to remember that the number of bites a person receives is not indicative of the number of bed bugs that feed on that person.

Are bed bug bites dangerous?

Scratching bed bug bites and failure to keep the bites clean and disinfected may lead to a secondary infection that can cause further swelling and bleeding. Children, the elderly, and individuals with weak immune systems, particularly those who are bedridden, may develop secondary infections that result from bed bug bites.

Do bed bugs bite dogs or cats?

Bites on dogs and cats will look much like bites on people, and the pet owner may actually suspect a mosquito or flea bit the pet. As with people, bed bugs do not stay on pets, but return to a protected harborage site after feeding. In addition to bites, the presence of the bug’s feces, cast skins and the animal’s irritation at night are also indicators of bed bugs biting pets. Therefore, one of the best things to do is inspect the pet’s bedding and frequently groom the animal while being vigilant for the telltale signs of bed bug presence.

Flea Bites vs. Bed Bug Bites

While bed bug bites and flea bites may look similar, there are a few ways to tell the difference between them. Although treatment is necessary for flea and bed bug infestations, the process and strategy differ. If you’re noticing flea or bed bug bite symptoms on you, your pets, or children, here are a few things to keep in mind when trying to identify which pest you’re dealing with:

How to Identify a Flea Bite

• These bites closely resemble those of a mosquito as they’re often randomly placed, have a dot shape, and feature a dark red center from a flea’s puncture bite

• Become less swollen as time goes on

• Immediately itch

• Can turn into an open sore

How to Identify a Bed Bug Bite

• Bites from a bed bug are red, raised, and flat due to an allergic reaction from bed bug saliva

• Bed bug bites on humans display in a straight row, typically consisting of a few bites (but not always)

• Can take a few days to show up as bed bugs feed every 7–10 days

• Gradually itches as time goes on

Bed Bug Bites vs.

Spider Bites

Typical of tiny biting pests, we often don’t see them until they’ve already bitten and symptoms appear. To know which course of treatment is required to effectively get rid of a potential bed bug or flea infestation, you need to properly identify which bug you’ve encountered. A solid way to decipher which type of bite you’re experiencing is learning how to tell the difference between bed bug bites and spider bites. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

How to Identify a Spider Bite

• Feature two small holes due to spider fangs

• Typically only one or two bites

• Pretty rare as most spiders only bite when threatened

• Bites from more dangerous spiders also include symptoms such as nausea, muscle cramping, and difficulty breathing

When trying to figure out whether you’ve been bit by a spider or a bed bug, take a look around to see if you can find any telltale signs of a possible infestation. For help getting rid of bed bugs and spiders, contact your local Orkin branch.

How to identify Bed Bugs?

Learn what Bed Bugs look like, and how to detect if you have a Bed Bug Infestation.

How do you get Bed Bugs?

Find out how Bed Bugs infiltrate your home and where they are attracted to.

How serious are Bed Bugs?

Learn about Bed Bug bites. their feces and how they can impact your health.

What Orkin Does

Learn how Orkin handles Bed Bugs, homeopathic cures and the cost of Bed Bug extermination services.

Call us877-819-5061

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How to Identify and Treat Fire Ant Bites

The red imported fire ant was brought to the United States from Brazil in the 1930s and has spread relatively unchecked throughout the southeastern region of the country, appearing as far west as California. Imported red fire ants dwell in large numbers and react aggressively to combat threats to their colonies. Red fire ants are generally omnivorous, feeding on proteins, honeydew, seeds and most foods found in homes. A red fire ant will secure itself to its prey with a pair of clamplike mandibles. Once secured, the ant will use its abdominal stinger to inject alkaloid venom into the victim. The ant can deliver multiple stings, pivoting in a circle until it is brushed off or until its victim dies.

Red Imported Fire Ants

Learn about red imported fire ants & why it is important to get rid of these pests.

How To Identify The Bite/Sting

The bite of a red fire ant produces a burning or stinging sensation. Stings first manifest as red welts. Fire ant stings are identified by the sting’s appearance and the ant’s aggressive efforts to come from their above-ground nest in huge numbers to sting. Each ant bites and then repeatedly stings if not removed. If the ant stings often enough, multiple stings may show up in a small, semi-circular pattern. Fire ant stings appear as a reddish lump on the skin that in time becomes a small blister. The symptoms of fire ant stings may vary depending upon the sensitivity of the person and the number of times they are stung.

Symptoms Of Stings

Most people develop itchy bumps that may appear like localized hives or single lumps at sting sites. Bumps usually disappear in about an hour, and small blisters may appear within four hours of the initial reaction. About a day after a bite, blisters normally become filled with a pus-like substance. When healed, the blistered lesions may leave scars.

A more extensive localized reaction may occur which involves swelling that extends beyond the sting site. For example, a single sting on the forearm could cause swelling across the entire arm. This condition may exist for two to three days.

Some very sensitive persons may develop much more serious allergic symptoms that may include:

• Areas other than sting sites may itch and swell

• Vomiting, stomach cramping, intense nausea, and diarrhea

• Tightness in the chest and difficulty in breathing

• Hoarseness or swelling of the tongue or throat, or difficulty swallowing

Even more severe, life-threatening reactions may occur when anaphylaxis, a severe, whole-body allergic reaction, arises. Anaphylaxis reactions can begin within minutes after the sting(s) and involve dizziness, a drop in blood pressure, unconsciousness or cardiac arrest. It is always best to seek the advice and care of a physician for treatment of fire ant stings and bites.

Why Do They Bite And Sting?

Fire ants bite the skin and hold on until the ant’s stinger injects the venom. The bite may be unnoticed because it is overshadowed by the painful intensity of the sting. Fire ants sting as a defensive measure to protect their colony and to capture prey.

Risks Associated With Infections

If no treatment is administered, the red bumps will turn into white pustules, which carry a risk of infection. If infected, they can leave scars. Risks exist for secondary bacterial infection of fire ant stings if the pustule is scratched or broken open or the sting sites are not kept clean.

How To Identify Stings On Pets

Removing pets from the area where stinging occurs is very important. Fire ant stings can be identified by the numerous small, red bumps that develop on the parts of the animal with little or no hair – eyes, ears and belly. Sometimes fire ants will sting the eyes, as well.

Fire Ant Bite Treatment

Potential first aid for fire ant bites includes over-the-counter products for itching or pain and cold compresses. If a fire ant sting victim experiences allergic symptoms, such as headaches, nausea or dizziness, or difficulty breathing, professional medical treatment should be sought immediately.

In the event that fire ants are present on your property, it is advised that you contact a local pest control professional to remove the threat of future attacks.

Why ant stings are dangerous and what to do about it

Likbez

Health

May 21, 2022

Some insect bites can kill you.

Why ants can be dangerous to humans

Scientists believe that wasps had the same ancestors as ants. Therefore, 71% of the latter have a sting. With its help, ants can inject toxins, holding on to the victim due to their jaws.

The composition of poisons varies greatly between species. It is usually based on formic acid and peptides that destroy red blood cells and other cells, and also prevent the transmission of nerve impulses. This allows you to protect yourself from predators. But in the wild, the main enemy of the ant is another colony. So poisons arose in the process of evolution not as a weapon against man.

Therefore, death from ant bites is most often caused not by toxins, but by the strongest allergic reaction – anaphylaxis. It is believed that 50% of the proteins in ant venom can cause allergies in humans.

Which types of ants are dangerous for humans

260 species of ants out of 14,000 existing in the world live in Russia. Almost all of them are safe for humans. For example, red woods bite, but there is no evidence of anaphylactic shock or death after encountering them. Therefore, in our culture, the ant is a hardworking hard worker.

But while traveling abroad, you may encounter its aggressive counterparts, from which people die every year.

Red fire ant

Solenopsis invicta

Photo: Klanarong Chitmung / Shutterstock

This species was accidentally brought to the USA from South America 100 years ago. Since then, the ants have proliferated in the southern states and have killed at least 80 people.

An unpleasant feature of Solenopsis invicta is that they clamp the prey with their jaws and sting several times in a row. At the site of the bites, itchy red blisters appear, which can get germs. This leads to inflammation. Poison sometimes causes an allergic reaction.

There are no red fire ants in Russia. Only occasionally they are accidentally brought in by travelers.

Maricopa Reaper Ant

Pogonomyrmex maricopa

Photo: Kessler Bowman / Shutterstock

Several species of reaper live in the US, but Pogonomyrmex maricopa has a special position. He has the most toxic poison in the world among insects. Just 12 bites can kill a large rat, and a stung person will experience severe pain for at least 4 hours. An allergic reaction and anaphylaxis may also occur.

The only good thing is that these insects are not very aggressive and rarely attack. People usually notice anthills because of the large size of the reapers. This allows you to bypass them and not endanger yourself.

Bullet ant

Paraponera clavata

Photo: Ryan M. Bolton / Shutterstock

These insects are native to South America. They are called bullets because of their extremely painful bites. In their place, a strong edema occurs, the lymph nodes become inflamed nearby, the heartbeat quickens, blood appears in the stool. Blame for this special nerve agent – poneratoxin, which can kill even a person. Scientists have calculated that 30 bites per kilogram of body weight are enough for a vertebrate to die.

Bulldog ant

Myrmecia gulosa

Photo: RugliG/Shutterstock

Also known as the bull ant, it can grow up to 4 centimeters in length and lives in Australia. There it is well known for its aggressive behavior and painful bites.

Myrmecia gulosa seize the victim with large jaws and sting, injecting poison. The latter causes severe allergic reactions up to anaphylactic shock. A person can die if help is not provided in time.

Jumping Jack Ant

Myrmecia pilosula

Photo: Thomas Bedford / Shutterstock

Relatives of bulldog ants are much smaller, but also live only in Australia and sting by holding the victim with their jaws. The bite site turns red and swells, sometimes very strongly, and the condition does not return to normal for several days. According to surveys, 2-3% of those affected had anaphylaxis, which was life-threatening in half of the cases. Several people have died in recent years.

Siafu

Dorylus gribodoi

Photo: Pavel Krasensky / Shutterstock

These ants live in huge colonies in Africa. When food runs out, they roam to a new place in a giant marching mass. Such a column moves slowly, but fiercely defends itself against any attacks or their threat. So it’s better not to get in her way, especially those who can’t move.

Siafu poison is not very dangerous for humans. But these ants rarely sting anyway. Instead, they bite, leaving behind two stab wounds from large jaws. It is very difficult to remove the latter, so some tribes use them as natural seams. The ants are forced to bite the edges of the wound, and then they are torn off so that only the jaws remain.

Army ant

Eciton burchellii

Photo: Dr. Morley Read / Shutterstock

Similar to Siafu, but native to South America and southern North America. The bites can also be very painful and itchy due to the venom. Fortunately, the columns of Eciton burchellii move slowly. Therefore, it is usually easy to avoid meeting with them if the path of the ants does not lie through human houses.

When to see a doctor

Whoever bites you, call an ambulance and see a doctor as soon as possible if convulsions or anaphylaxis are observed: difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, pallor, loss of consciousness. The hospital will provide anti-shock treatment that could save a life.

You may also need medical attention if:

• there are too many bites;
• child, elderly or person with neurological impairment suffered;
• the affected areas became inflamed: pus appeared and the temperature rose.

What you can do yourself if you are bitten by an ant

First aid can be provided on your own (the actions are the same for bites of different types of insects). To do this:

• Wash the wounds with soap or just cool water.
• Cool the bite, such as an ice cube, to relieve pain.
• Apply antiallergic ointment. For example, based on steroids or antihistamines.
• If needed, take an over-the-counter paracetamol or ibuprofen pain reliever.

How to protect yourself from ant stings

If you are going outdoors, it is best to prepare in advance:

• Before you travel, learn about the dangers at your destination, including ants and other insects. So you will be alert and react faster if something goes wrong.
• Do not stand on anthills or in the path of an ant column.
• Wear protective clothing and footwear. For example, to prevent fire ants from getting to the body, in Texas it is advised to wear boots.
• Treat clothing with insect repellent spray.

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Oh, red summer! I would love you, If it were not for the heat, and dust, and mosquitoes, and flies.

The poems of the great Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin very accurately reflect the troubles of the summer season. It is unlikely that you can meet a person on Earth who has never experienced an insect bite in his life. And most insect bites in Russia occur in the summer. The body’s response to such exposure depends on two factors. Firstly, from the type of insect, because poisonous varieties are also found among them. Secondly, from the individual reactions of the body. Some people tolerate bites easily, while for others, such exposure can be deadly – an allergic reaction and infection transmitted through an insect bite or introduced after scratching the bite site.

Insects can carry a wide variety of dangerous infections. So, lice are distributors of relapsing and typhus, mosquitoes carry leishmaniasis, an ordinary house fly can become a carrier of dysentery or typhoid, fleas are carriers of pseudotuberculosis, tularemia, and plague. Mosquitoes of different species contribute to the spread of malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever. Tick ​​bites can lead to infection with encephalitis, Lyme disease, and tick-borne typhus.

The main insects causing trouble in our climatic zone are mosquitoes, ticks, wasps, bumblebees, hornets, ants.

Most often, with an insect bite, symptoms such as pain, swelling and swelling, redness, itching are noted.

Moshka . Favorite habitats – near fast rivers, where their larvae develop. They bite, as a rule, on hot sunny days. We often do not feel the moment of the bite itself – the midge simultaneously injects saliva – “freeze”. After a few minutes, there is a burning sensation, severe itching and a large red swelling (sometimes the size of a palm).

The saliva of midges is poisonous. The swelling subsides after a few days, but the unbearable itching can bother you for several weeks. Children usually scratch the bite sites for blood, before the sores appear. Multiple bites sometimes lead to fever and signs of general poisoning. Those who are allergic to insect bites should be especially careful.

What to do? Wipe the skin with ammonia, then apply ice. You can take an antihistamine (antiallergic) remedy. To protect against a midge bite, you need to treat the skin with a repellent.

Mosquitoes are especially numerous near ponds with stagnant water. They bite around the clock from late May to September, especially at night and before rain. The bite may not be felt. After a bite, a white, itchy blister appears with redness around. There are mosquitoes, carriers of malaria and some viral infections. Plus, bites are allergic.

What to do? Itching removes lotion from a solution of soda. To protect yourself from a mosquito bite, you should treat all open areas of the body with repellent, which is better to buy at a pharmacy. For children, special products are sold: be sure to look at the age restrictions!

Wasp or bee. The probability of a bite persists all summer during daylight hours in glades, meadows, and in the garden. Attracts everything sweet, bouquets of flowers, perfumes with a floral aroma, clothes of “neon” colors. When bitten, there is a sharp pain and burning sensation, a left sting (black) is visible in the wound. Insect venom causes severe swelling in the bite area. The affected area becomes red and hot. The danger is an allergic reaction, especially if bitten in the head, (can be life threatening)! If a small child is bitten, in any case, it must be shown to the doctor, an ambulance should be called.

What to do? Remove the sting with tweezers, wash the wound with alcohol and anoint with iodine. Take an antihistamine, apply ice in a towel to the bite. The pain will be removed by cotton wool with a solution of novocaine.

To prevent bite, do not leave sweets, fruits on the table, wipe your mouth after eating with a damp cloth, do not walk barefoot in clover fields, do not work near beehives and wasp nests, do not let children play in the habitats of wasps and bees.

Tick. The bite of the tick is not felt, as the tick anesthetizes the wound with saliva and sticks to the skin. Redness appears around the bite, the wound does not itch.

What to do? It is best to immediately go to the nearest emergency room – they will remove the tick and tell you the procedure. If this is not possible, you can try to carefully remove the tick with a ticker, thread (so that the head does not remain in the skin). Treat the wound with alcohol. And – still running to the doctor! Together with the tick (in a jar), it will also need to be passed to the doctors for analysis. If the area is endemic for encephalitis (the Altai Republic is one of them), then an injection of immunoglobulin is necessary. Prevention of infection with borreliosis – taking antibiotics, strictly according to the doctor’s prescription.

To protect against tick bites, a whole range of preventive measures are used: wearing certain types of clothing, external examination, and the use of repellents.

Ant. Active from spring to autumn in forests and parks. The ant does not bite, but shoots with a stream of poisonous formic acid. The victim feels a burning pain, the affected area turns red, a tiny blister may appear – a trace of a burn. Possible dermatitis, allergic reactions.

If one ant “bites” you, then there is no danger (with the exception of allergy sufferers). If it’s too much, it’s best to see a doctor.

What to do? Neutralize the acid with a solution of soda, if it is not at hand, simply moisten with saliva. Ice can be applied at home.

To prevent a bite, it is better to keep children away from anthills, repellents do not work on ants.

Seek immediate medical attention if:

– a wasp, a bee or a bumblebee has bitten a small child;

– a person has a severe allergic reaction to an insect bite;

– more than 10 bites on the body;

– swollen lymph nodes after a bite;

– bitten by a tick;

– after bites in an adult or child, the temperature rose sharply, severe poor health, nausea, vomiting;

– a tumor has arisen at the site of the bite and does not subside;

– pus appeared at the site of the bite.

H Never:

– g rubo to pull out the stinger.