How can you keep mosquitoes at bay during outdoor activities. What are the most effective repellents to use against mosquitoes. Why do mosquitoes seem to prefer certain people over others. How does clothing choice impact your likelihood of getting bitten.

Harnessing the Power of Breeze: A Natural Mosquito Deterrent

Did you know that a simple breeze can be your best ally against mosquitoes? According to Jonathan Day, Ph.D., a mosquito expert and professor of medical entomology at the University of Florida, even a gentle wind of just over 1 MPH can significantly impede mosquitoes’ ability to fly. This natural defense mechanism can be easily replicated in your outdoor spaces.

How can you create a mosquito-deterring breeze in your backyard? Consider these options:

• Choose naturally breezy spots for outdoor activities
• Use plug-in fans to create artificial wind
• Direct airflow towards the lower half of your body

Why focus on the lower body? Mosquitoes typically fly close to the ground to avoid wind, so a downward-directed airflow can effectively block their approach. This simple tactic can significantly reduce your chances of getting bitten during outdoor gatherings.

It’s important to note that while fans and natural breezes are effective, not all mosquito-repelling devices live up to their claims. Dr. Day warns against relying on ultrasonic devices or apps that purport to mimic dragonfly sounds, stating unequivocally that “they don’t work at all.”

Timing is Everything: Avoiding Peak Mosquito Hours

Understanding mosquito behavior can help you plan your outdoor activities more strategically. Howard Russell, M.S., an entomologist at Michigan State University, explains that mosquitoes, like humans, have preferred feeding times. These periods typically coincide with dusk and dawn.

Why are mosquitoes more active during these times? Dr. Day clarifies that wind tends to dissipate as the sun rises and sets, creating ideal conditions for mosquitoes to seek out their meals. By being aware of these peak hours, you can take proactive steps to minimize your exposure.

Consider these strategies to avoid peak mosquito times:

1. Plan indoor activities during dawn and dusk when possible
2. If you must be outside, take extra precautions during these hours
3. Use this knowledge to time the application of repellents more effectively

DEET: Debunking Myths and Maximizing Effectiveness

DEET has long been a topic of controversy in mosquito prevention discussions. However, Dr. Day asserts that adverse reactions to DEET are rare and typically occur only when the product is misused. When applied correctly, DEET is extremely effective in repelling mosquitoes by blocking their CO2 receptors.

How should you apply DEET for maximum effectiveness?

• Apply a small amount to your hands first
• Rub it onto areas where skin is thin: ankles, elbows, wrists, forehead
• Avoid spraying directly on your body or clothes
• Choose the right concentration based on your outdoor duration

Is a higher concentration of DEET more effective? Not necessarily. Dr. Day explains that the concentration determines how long the product will last, not its efficacy. For outings lasting 90 minutes or less, a 7-10% DEET product is sufficient. You can always reapply to extend its protection, but it’s advisable not to exceed 30% concentration.

Are there alternative forms of DEET products? Yes, DEET is available in lotion and wipe forms, which are equally effective as sprays and eliminate the risk of inhalation. However, Dr. Day cautions against wearable DEET items like wristbands or anklets, as they don’t actually prevent mosquito bites.

Beyond DEET: Exploring Alternative Mosquito Repellents

While DEET is highly effective, some individuals prefer alternative options. Fortunately, several other repellents have been recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for mosquito prevention.

What are these CDC-approved alternatives to DEET?

• Picaridin
• IR3535
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE)
• Para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone

Among these alternatives, picaridin stands out as particularly effective. Roberto M. Pereira, Ph.D., an entomologist and research scientist at the University of Florida, notes that picaridin was developed for military use, similar to DEET, and “works really well.”

How can you ensure you’re choosing an effective repellent? Nancy Troyano, Ph.D., a board-certified entomologist and Director of Operations Education and Training for Western Exterminator Company, advises looking for Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approval on the product’s label. This certification indicates that the repellent is both effective and safe to use.

The Cool Factor: Minimizing Sweat to Reduce Mosquito Attraction

Did you know that your body temperature and sweat production can influence how attractive you are to mosquitoes? Dr. Pereira explains that mosquitoes are drawn to the pheromones released in human sweat. While this susceptibility can vary from person to person, taking steps to stay cool can potentially reduce your appeal to these biting insects.

How can you minimize sweat and reduce mosquito attraction?

• Seek shade during hot days
• Stay hydrated to regulate body temperature
• Wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothing
• Use cooling towels or mists when outdoors

It’s important to note that some individuals may attract mosquitoes regardless of their efforts to stay cool. As Russell points out, “Some people, like me, attract mosquitoes regardless of what they drink, eat, or wear.” However, for many people, staying cool can be an effective strategy in the overall mosquito prevention arsenal.

Dressing for Success: Choosing Mosquito-Resistant Clothing

Your choice of clothing can play a significant role in preventing mosquito bites. Dr. Day explains that mosquitoes cannot penetrate clothing with a very tight weave. This insight opens up a range of options for protective yet comfortable attire.

What types of fabrics offer the best protection against mosquito bites?

• Synthetic fibers, especially high-tech athletic apparel
• Garments designed for sun protection
• Tightly woven fabrics

While cotton and linen are popular choices for summer wear, they typically don’t provide adequate protection against mosquitoes due to their looser weave. Opting for long sleeves and pants in tightly woven fabrics can significantly enhance your defense against bites.

Does the color of your clothing matter? Indeed it does. Dr. Day notes that mosquitoes use vision to search for food sources during daylight hours. They tend to fly close to the ground and are attracted to objects that contrast with the horizon. As a result, dark colors stand out more, while light colors are less attractive to mosquitoes.

The Science of Mosquito Vision: Outsmarting Their Visual Preferences

Understanding how mosquitoes perceive their environment can give us an edge in avoiding their attention. As mentioned earlier, these insects rely heavily on visual cues when searching for potential food sources during the day. This knowledge allows us to make informed choices about our appearance and surroundings to minimize our visibility to mosquitoes.

How do mosquitoes use vision to locate targets?

• They fly close to the ground, looking for contrasts against the horizon
• Dark objects stand out more prominently in their field of vision
• Movement can attract their attention

Given this information, what strategies can you employ to become less visible to mosquitoes?

1. Opt for light-colored clothing when outdoors
2. Choose solid colors over patterns to reduce contrast
3. Minimize unnecessary movement in mosquito-prone areas
4. Consider using light-colored furniture and decor in outdoor spaces

By incorporating these strategies into your outdoor routine, you can significantly reduce your chances of being targeted by mosquitoes. Remember, while no single method is foolproof, combining multiple approaches can create a robust defense against these persistent pests.

The Role of Scent in Mosquito Attraction

While visual cues play a significant role in mosquito behavior, scent is another crucial factor in their target selection process. Mosquitoes are highly attuned to various odors emitted by humans and animals, which they use to locate potential blood meals.

What scents are most attractive to mosquitoes?

• Carbon dioxide from exhaled breath
• Lactic acid present in sweat
• Certain chemicals present in human skin oils
• Floral or fruity fragrances in some personal care products

Understanding these olfactory preferences can help us make informed choices about the products we use and our outdoor behaviors. For instance, avoiding scented lotions, perfumes, or hair products when spending time outdoors can potentially reduce your attractiveness to mosquitoes.

Are there any scents that repel mosquitoes? While not as effective as chemical repellents, some natural scents have shown promise in deterring mosquitoes:

• Citronella
• Peppermint
• Eucalyptus
• Lavender
• Lemongrass

While these natural options may offer some protection, it’s important to note that their effectiveness is generally lower and shorter-lived compared to EPA-approved repellents. They can, however, be used as part of a comprehensive mosquito prevention strategy.

Creating a Mosquito-Unfriendly Environment

Beyond personal protection measures, managing your immediate environment can significantly reduce mosquito populations and your risk of bites. Mosquitoes require standing water to breed, so eliminating these sources can interrupt their life cycle and decrease their numbers.

How can you make your surroundings less hospitable to mosquitoes?

1. Regularly empty and clean bird baths, pet water bowls, and plant saucers
2. Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent water accumulation
3. Fill in low-lying areas in your yard where water might pool
4. Keep swimming pools properly chlorinated and filtered
5. Store outdoor equipment and toys in a way that prevents water collection

Additionally, certain landscaping choices can help deter mosquitoes. Some plants are known to repel these insects naturally:

• Marigolds
• Citronella grass
• Lavender
• Rosemary
• Basil

While these plants alone won’t eliminate mosquitoes, incorporating them into your garden or outdoor living spaces can contribute to a more mosquito-resistant environment.

The Impact of Time and Weather on Mosquito Activity

Understanding how time of day and weather conditions affect mosquito behavior can help you plan outdoor activities more effectively. As mentioned earlier, dawn and dusk are peak feeding times for many mosquito species, but other factors can influence their activity levels as well.

What weather conditions are most favorable for mosquitoes?

• Warm temperatures (typically between 50째F and 95째F)
• High humidity
• Still air or very light breezes
• Recent rainfall

Conversely, mosquitoes are less active in certain conditions:

• Strong winds
• Very hot temperatures (above 95째F)
• Cold temperatures (below 50째F)
• Low humidity

By monitoring weather forecasts and planning your outdoor activities accordingly, you can minimize your exposure to mosquitoes during their most active periods. Remember, however, that different mosquito species may have varying preferences, so local knowledge is valuable in predicting mosquito behavior in your area.

The Importance of Community Effort in Mosquito Control

While individual actions are crucial in preventing mosquito bites, community-wide efforts can have an even more significant impact on reducing mosquito populations. Many municipalities have mosquito control programs that employ various strategies to manage these pests on a larger scale.

How do community mosquito control programs work?

• Surveillance to identify mosquito species and breeding sites
• Larvicide application in standing water sources
• Adulticiding (spraying to kill adult mosquitoes) when necessary
• Public education on mosquito prevention techniques
• Biological control methods, such as introducing mosquito-eating fish

As a community member, you can support these efforts by:

1. Reporting standing water or excessive mosquito activity to local authorities
2. Participating in community clean-up events
3. Sharing information about mosquito prevention with neighbors
4. Supporting local initiatives for mosquito control

Remember, mosquitoes don’t recognize property boundaries, so collaborative efforts can lead to more effective control and a more enjoyable outdoor experience for everyone in your community.

Innovative Technologies in Mosquito Prevention

As our understanding of mosquito biology and behavior advances, new technologies are emerging to help combat these persistent pests. While some of these innovations are still in development or have limited effectiveness, they represent exciting possibilities for future mosquito control strategies.

What are some cutting-edge approaches to mosquito prevention?

• Genetically modified mosquitoes designed to reduce populations
• Targeted outdoor spraying systems
• Smart traps that use AI to identify and capture specific mosquito species
• Wearable devices that emit repellent compounds
• Smartphone apps that track mosquito activity and provide real-time alerts

While these technologies show promise, it’s important to approach them with a critical eye and rely on scientifically proven methods for mosquito prevention. As research continues, we may see more effective and environmentally friendly solutions emerge to complement existing strategies.

In conclusion, preventing mosquito bites requires a multi-faceted approach that combines understanding mosquito behavior, using effective repellents, making smart clothing choices, and managing your environment. By implementing these strategies and staying informed about new developments in mosquito control, you can significantly reduce your risk of bites and enjoy outdoor activities with greater peace of mind. Remember, consistency is key in mosquito prevention, so make these practices a regular part of your outdoor routine for the best results.

11 Proven Ways to Prevent Mosquito Bites

1

Blow them away with a breeze.

M_a_y_a//Getty Images

Almost any breeze—anything above 1 MPH—makes it very difficult for mosquitoes to fly, says Jonathan Day, Ph.D., a mosquito expert and professor of medical entomology at the University of Florida. If you can pick a breezy spot for your summer outing, that can help prevent mosquito bites.

Plug-in fans are also a great deterrent, he adds. Just keep the flow of air directed at the lower half of your body; mosquitoes tend to fly very close to the ground to avoid wind, so directing the fan’s force downward will block their approach.

Natural wind or a fan will work much more in your favor than those fancy, ultrasonic devices and apps marketed as mosquito repellants—some of which claim to mimic the sound of dragonflies. “They don’t work at all,” Day says.

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2

Avoid peak mosquito hours when you can.

Imgorthand//Getty Images

Just like you, mosquitoes crave a meal during certain times of day, says Howard Russell, M. S., an entomologist at Michigan State University. And for these critters, it’s often around dusk and dawn.

That’s because the wind typically dissipates as the sun rises and sets, which brings mosquitoes out to feed, Day explains. If you can try to stay inside during these times when the weather is warm, you’ll be able to prevent more than a few mosquito bites.

3

Apply DEET before you head outdoors.

BartekSzewczyk//Getty Images

DEET has a bad reputation, but adverse reactions to it are rare—and tend to occur only when people swallow or snort the stuff. When used as directed, it’s extremely effective, since it blocks a mosquito’s CO2 receoptors, Day says. Still, he’s quick to add: “Most people don’t understand how to apply it properly.” (Fun fact: DEET makes a great tick repellent, too.)

First, you should not spray DEET on your body and clothes like it’s perfume, he stresses. Instead, squirt a little onto your hands and rub it onto your ankles, elbows, wrists, forehead, and all the other places where your skin is thin—and where mosquitoes love to feed.

Also important: Day says a product’s DEET concentration determines how long it will last—not how well it will work. If you’ll be outside for 90 minutes or less, he says a product with 7 to 10% DEET will do the job, and you can always reapply to extend its efficacy (do not go higher than 30%). DEET in lotion or wipe form is also just as effective as a spray and removes the risk of inhaling it.

Finally, don’t waste your money on wearable DEET items, like wristbands or anklets—they don’t actually prevent mosquito bites, says Day.

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4

Use other mosquito repellents if you’re not into DEET.

Photoboyko//Getty Images

If you just can’t with DEET, there are other options that are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for use in repelling mosquitoes, including:

• Picaridin
• IR3535
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE)
• Para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone

While all of the above have been found to be effective like DEET, picaridin is the next best choice. “This is something that was developed for the military just like DEET was,” says Roberto M. Pereira, Ph.D., an entomologist and research scientist at the University of Florida. “It works really well.”

If you’re at the store and you’re not sure if a repellent has these ingredients, “your safest bet is to look for Environmental Protection Agency approval on the product’s label,” says Nancy Troyano, Ph.D., a board-certified entomologist and Director of Operations Education and Training for Western Exterminator Company. If it does, it should be effective and safe.

5

Try to stay cool.

RUSS ROHDE//Getty Images

This can be easier said than done in the summer, but mosquitoes are drawn in by pheromones released in your sweat, says Pereira.

This can vary from person to person. “Some people, like me, attract mosquitoes regardless of what they drink, eat, or wear,” says Russell. Still, the more you can do to take it easy on the sweating—especially during peak mosquito hours—the better.

6

Wear tightly woven, light-colored clothes.

shapecharge//Getty Images

Mosquitoes can’t penetrate clothing that has a very tight weave, Day says. While cotton and linen typically aren’t great armor against mosquito bites, Day says many synthetic fibers—particularly high-tech athletic apparel—tend to be woven tightly enough to keep bugs out. Any garment that offers sun protection will also have a tight enough weave to prevent mosquito bites, especially when you opt for long sleeves and pants.

Mosquitoes also use their vision to search for food sources during the daylight hours. Since they fly very close to the ground, they tend to find targets by looking for things that contrast with the horizon, Day says. “Dark colors stand out, but light colors are less attractive to them,” he adds. Of course, make sure you protect any exposed areas with a repellent if you’re going to be spending time outdoors for a long period of time.

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7

Give your heart a breather.

Thiemi Higashi / EyeEm//Getty Images

Day says carbon dioxide (CO2) is the primary thing mosquitoes search for to identify food sources. And when your heart rate is elevated, your body produces more CO2. From exercise to drinking alcohol to eating spicy foods, anything that cranks up your metabolic rate will increase your CO2 production—and make you irresistible to mosquitoes, Day says. Unfortunately, being overweight or pregnant can also up your CO2 output, he adds.

If you’re outdoors and you know your heart rate will be spiking, make sure you wear protective clothing or apply a repellent to keep bug bites at bay.

8

Get rid of standing water around your home.

romrodinka//Getty Images

There are different types of mosquitoes, and the “mosquitoes that we worry about in urban areas are usually ones that are being produced in your own backyard,” Pereira says. Aedes mosquitoes, which transmit Zika virus and chikungunya, can easily breed in small containers of water like a birdbath or even water sitting around your plants. “They can breed in your own yard, and you wouldn’t necessarily know it,” Pereira says.

Do your best to clear out any standing water to lower the odds that you’ll have lots of mosquitoes hanging around your place ready to bite.

9

Consider adding plants that repel mosquitoes to your property.

Hs Jo / EyeEm//Getty Images

This shouldn’t be your only mosquito-combating strategy, but Pereira says that certain plants repel mosquitoes. Those include things like citronella, lavender, lemongrass, marigolds, and basil. “If you had enough, it could make a difference in terms of mosquitoes inside your property,” he says.

Just keep realistic expectations about what these can and can’t do, Troyano says. While they may help tamp down on the number of mosquitoes around your place, “even planted in large quantities, the potency of these plants would not be enough to keep mosquitoes out of your yard entirely,” she says.

The same goes for citronella candles and oils. While they’re natural insect repellents, Day says they only work if their scent or smoke gets between you and the mosquito. So if you’re lighting tiki torches that sit a few feet off the ground, they won’t do much to prevent mosquito bites, he says.

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10

Spray your yard for mosquitoes.

Huntstock//Getty Images

If you live in an area where the mosquitoes are unbearable, it might be worth hiring a professional to come and treat your yard with insecticide, Russell says. This can do a pretty good job of ensuring they won’t come anywhere near your place.

As for mosquito traps? They’ve been souped up with fancy features to attract mosquitoes with special lights, heats, or scents. “There’s no doubt that traps can—under the right environmental conditions—capture of a lot of mosquitoes,” Day says. Realistically, though, you can’t catch ‘em all. “Over the last 30 years, there have been many traps marketed as being able to clear a one-acre or five-acre lot,” Day says, “and it has never been my experience, even with very efficient traps, that they can rid a whole area of mosquitoes. ”

A trap in the middle of your backyard will kill mosquitoes that fly close enough to sense its lures, sure, he says, but countless more will come flying into your yard to fill the space they leave behind. Mosquitoes are also adept at telling the difference between a trap and a living, breathing host—a.k.a. you.

11

Avoid scented products.

JGI/Jamie Grill//Getty Images

This can be tough, but it’s definitely worth a try if mosquitoes are terrible in your area. “Any scented perfume, lotion, or soap could potentially attract mosquitoes,” Troyano says. “If you want to reduce your attractiveness to mosquitoes, avoid scented products in general.”

Korin Miller

Korin Miller is a freelance writer specializing in general wellness, sexual health and relationships, and lifestyle trends, with work appearing in Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Self, Glamour, and more. She has a master’s degree from American University, lives by the beach, and hopes to own a teacup pig and taco truck one day.

Markham Heid

Markham Heid is an experienced health reporter and writer, has contributed to outlets like TIME, Men’s Health, and Everyday Health, and has received reporting awards from the Society of Professional Journalists and the Maryland, Delaware, and D.C. Press Association.

How to Identify Bug Bites

How to Identify Bug Bites

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Identifying different bugs and their corresponding bites is important.

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• Not all bug bites are equally dangerous, so it’s important to know what to look out for.
• Tick bites sometimes look like a bullseye, while mite bites are itchy and can look like a rash.
• Here’s how to identify common bug bites.

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Bug bites can be hard to identify, especially when there are so many household critters that can leave you with a bite.

While most insects you’ll encounter are harmless, there are a few specific bites that might warrant a trip to the doctor and it’s important to be able to identify these potentially dangerous bites.

From tick bites to wasp and hornet stings, each bug leaves behind distinct marks and symptoms that are worth knowing. Stock up on calamine lotion and check out this guide to identifying some of the most common bug bites and the symptoms associated with each.

Dangerous tick bites sometimes look like a bullseye.

The “bullseye” rash is sometimes seen in people with Lyme disease.

CDC/Wikimedia Commons

While many ticks don’t transmit disease, there numerous illnesses you can contract from ticks, including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Contrary to what you might have heard, ticks do not intentionally jump or drop onto their hosts. They simply crawl or hitch a ride on plant material, according to the CDC.

A tick bite that has not led to an infection can look like a small red circle. There may be minimal itching or swelling, according to John Hopkins Rheumatology.

A bite from a tick carrying Lyme disease may leave you with a bullseye-shaped rash involving concentric rings of reddened and lighter colored skin. This pattern may develop up to a month after the bite and never develops at all in up to 30% of people. This rash is not usually painful, according to the CDC.

Bedbug bites often show up in a line.

Bedbug bites are small and show up in a line.

Oliver Arend/Wikimedia Commons

Bedbug bites have a distinctive, clustered look to them. You probably won’t feel the bite of a bedbug, but you’ll certainly notice the groupings of red marks that often form a line across your skin, according to the CDC.

These bites are itchy, but the amount of discomfort varies from person to person. Some people experience a severe allergic reaction to bedbug saliva and develop an intense itch between 24 hours to three days later.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends enlisting the help of a pest-control company to clear your home of bed bugs, and to head to a dermatologist if you have many bites or a bite that looks infected.

Mosquito bites are puffy and itchy.

Mosquito bites can swell, especially if you scratch them.

Ekaterina Karetkina/Shutterstock

Mosquito bites look like round pink or red bumps. They’re usually itchy and appear very soon after being bitten, according to Healthline. You typically won’t feel anything while the bite is occurring.

While mosquitoes don’t have any venom of their own, they can carry dangerous diseases like the West Nile virus, malaria, and the Zika virus. Symptoms of these illnesses might not appear for up to four weeks, so get yourself checked by a doctor if you think you’ve been infected, according to the CDC.

Mite bites are extremely itchy and could look like a rash.

Mite bites appear similar to a rash.

Slturis/Wikimedia Commons

Mites, including chiggers, cause bites that look like small, red dots. They are usually extremely itchy and can even look like a solid skin rash if many bites are close together.

Chiggers are a type of mite that liquefies the skin around a bite so that they can eat it. If you’re dealing with a chigger bite, you might notice the surrounding skin harden in response to this reaction, according to WebMD.

Mites can cause scabies, which is a contagious condition in which mites burrow into the skin and lay eggs. According to the CDC, scabies frequently presents in places where direct and prolonged skin-to-skin contact is common such as nursing homes, child care facilities, and between sexual partners.

Ant bites are usually painful and can become infected.

Ant bites can blister.

Wikimedia Commons

Most household black ants are harmless and do not bite, but sugar ants, fire ants, and carpenter ants can deliver a painful sting, according to WebMD.

If you are bitten by fire ants, you can expect to see small red blisters and could also develop tiny white pustules on the site of the bite. Do not try to drain or open the blisters as they could become infected. Carpenter ants actually apply formic acid into their bites, which makes them extremely painful.

These ant bites should resolve after three to seven days, though scratching the bites could cause scars.

Lice bites are almost too small to see.

Lice bites are too small to see, but you can definitely feel them.

Joe Corrigan/Getty Images

Head lice are tiny, parasitic insects that live on the human scalp and feed on blood. Their bites are usually almost too small to see but can itch fiercely.

The CDC reported that head lice do not carry any disease or bacteria, though some people may develop a large rash from multiple lice bites. Body lice, however, can carry disease, according to the CDC. Lice are spread via direct person-to-person contact and cannot jump or live longer than 48 hours off of a human host.

Horsefly bites are painful and potentially dangerous.

The bite is red with a pale area.

National Health Services

Horseflies are common around livestock and in rural environments. The bite itself is painful and you will most likely be aware it is happening, according to the UK National Health Service. The bite of a horsefly may look like a red circle with a pale center area. 

Some people experience allergic reactions to horsefly bites with symptoms including shortness of breath and swelling.

Wasp and hornet stings can stay swollen for up to a week.

Swelling can last up to a week.

Kai Hendry/Flickr/2.0 Attribution

A wasp or hornet resembles a bee in coloration, but they’re not the same. A wasp sting feels like a sharp, sudden pain followed by the formation of a red and swollen mark, according to the National Health Service.

Though wasp stings usually calm down after a few hours, some stings can persist for days and lead to swelling that lasts up to a week.

Midge or gnat bites look like mosquito bites.

Midge bites start as small, itchy bumps.

National Health Services

A bite from a midge or gnat will usually present as a small, itchy red bump. The National Health Service said these bumps can be painful and sometimes swell up quite a bit.

Occasionally, midge bites may develop blisters that fill with fluid. It’s important not to pick at these as breaking the blisters could lead to scarring.

A black widow spider bite has two fang marks.

You’ll notice two puncture marks.

David~O/Flickr/2.0 Attribution

While most spider bites will only leave you with a small, swollen red mark, a few household spiders can be deadly.

The bite of a black widow spider looks like a red patch with two puncture marks. The spider itself has a distinctive red hourglass pattern on its body. You might feel the bite or you might not notice. Pain and swelling will set in after about 40 minutes, and within eight hours you might feel muscle pain, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and breathing difficulties, according to Healthline.

Head to the doctor if you suspect you have been bitten by a black widow spider.

Brown recluse spider bites might form a blister and need swift medical attention.

It might resemble a bruise.

Wikimedia Commons

Brown recluse spiders are native to Midwestern and Southeastern states. While these spiders are extremely dangerous, they are also very rare. All reported deaths from brown recluse spider bites in the US have been in children younger than seven years old, according to AL.com.

Brown recluse bites are usually painless, though a white or light-colored blister might develop at the site of the bite. As time passes, this bite could start to look like a bruise or turn crusty. Symptoms usually appear within two to eight hours and include severe pain and itching, nausea, vomiting, fever, and muscle pain, according to Emedicinehealth.

The bite of a brown recluse spider is very dangerous and can lead to seizures, kidney failure, and coma. If left untreated, a bite from a brown recluse spider might also cause a necrotic lesion, which is basically an area of dead tissue. Head to your doctor or the local hospital for this one.

Bee stings look like hives and could still contain a stinger.

The surrounding area will be red.

Wikimedia Commons

You’ll probably know if you’ve been stung by a bee, as the sting is painful. The stung area will likely appear as a raised light bump with a red dot in the center and is usually surrounded by pink or irritated skin. The site could still contain the detached stinger of the bee.

Bee stings can result in a severe allergic reaction in some people that can lead to swelling in the lungs and throat, called anaphylaxis. This can lead to death if not immediately treated. Other severe symptoms include trouble breathing, dizziness, vomiting, and cardiac arrest, according to Mayo Clinic.

If you’ve been stung by a bee before, your body might develop an immune response to subsequent stings that can lead to severe swelling at the sting site or across large areas of your body.

Flea bites are small and scattered.

Flea bites are tiny.

Wikimedia Commons

Flea bites typically look like tiny hives or spots. They might appear in groups of three or four and are frequently itchy. Flea bites are common around the ankles and legs but can appear anywhere. If pressed by a finger, a flea bite rash may turn white.

Fleas are harmless, but in incredibly rare cases they may carry the bacteria that causes plague. However, only seven people contract plague in the United States each year on average, according to the CDC.   

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90,000 who leaves what to do?

You wake up and see bright markings on your legs, stomach, arms, and maybe other parts of your body. Sometimes they itch, sometimes they don’t. We will analyze in detail where the red spots on the body come from, like bites, what are the consequences and what are their differences. All answers are below. Let’s start with an interesting story.

“I was bitten by a snake”: two dots around swollen skin

It was with these words that our friend Peter jumped up in the middle of the night. The whole family got excited. Mom began to look at the wound. The problem was also created by the fact that people were in the village, 35 km from the nearest hospital. Then the question arose whether to go to the doctors at 3 am and whether our hero would die before morning. You will say: “Of course, go, this is a man!”, But 15 years ago, more severe customs reigned in the villages. Fortunately, the presence of a snake was quickly ruled out, because another creature was found in the room.

Two-tail attacks: 2 centimeters long, huge whiskers and spread paws, and pincers in the back. This is what a cute creature, also called an earwig, looks like.

• Threat #1 — Our new “friend” has no stinger, and the scary-looking device is a cerci, forceps, with which it holds prey. They can bite you too. Red dots on the body will look like the bites of a cold-blooded animal, but they will not cause harm;
• Threat #2 – In rare cases, a two-tailed bug will climb into a person’s ear and roam in it. She won’t eat her brain, but she’s pretty scary. And don’t forget about ticks. If the population of the species in the house grows, then the likelihood of such an incident also increases.

The earwig looks intimidating, but does not pose an impressive threat, however, after carrying out a complex treatment of the more dangerous inhabitants of apartments, houses and offices, you will get rid of it. However, do not forget to inspect the premises for snakes. They usually don’t get very far.

Marks itch

Red bites on the body

The most common situation is when spots, like bites, itch. The first thing that should come to mind is the possibility of mosquitoes or mosquitoes. The latter are usually quickly detected by buzzing and tactile sensations during landing on the skin. Yes, and you can see a flying army without any special devices. Look at the distinguishing features of the creatures:

• Mosquitoes are small, up to 3 mm. The body is hairy. After dinner, they become red-brown in color. They fly slowly and silently;
• Mosquitoes: “buzzers”, often lulling people to sleep, and then proceeding to the meal. Grow up to 10 mm. Together with paws, they can cover up to 2 cm.

This is the most familiar and dangerous predator for us. Due to the fact that people are used to them, society underestimates the extent of the threat. And by the way, these creatures kill from 700 thousand to 2 million people a year. About the same number die from AIDS. Therefore, professional disinfestation of premises in the ranks of educated people is the norm. Take a look at other creatures whose bites itch red:

Bed bugs

Bed bugs are common in our environment. Individuals grow up to 8 mm. They are equipped with a proboscis, with the help of which human skin is pierced. Due to the small size of the body of the insect, mechanical methods of extermination are useless. It should be noted a long life expectancy – up to 14 months. Largely thanks to her, creatures generate hordes of their own kind in a short time. If the same mosquito dies in 2 months, forcing us to face only the young, then here the old people also go into battle.

Characteristic features of bites:

• Time of attack – most often from 2 to 7 in the morning;
• Localization – on the hands, face, legs;
• Shape – round with a pronounced centre;
• The appearance of – is similar to what remains of mosquitoes.

Spots on the body can be treated with alcohol tinctures, but oils (from rose hips, sea buckthorn, etc.) help the best. There are special gels.

Fleas

Another creepy bug that loves to feed on animals and people, especially children. Individuals are equipped with a strong shell, thanks to which they cannot be crushed. They are fast and jumpy – if you feel a characteristic burning sensation on the skin and notice a point that has suddenly disappeared from the cover, know that a flea has attacked you.

Characteristic features of food traces:

• Attack time – any;
• Location – in 80% of leg cases. Rarely hands. The rest of the body is attacked very infrequently;
• Form – round, oval, custom.
• View – intense color. Sometimes the swelling subsides, leaving only burgundy dots;

Red spots on the body, from bites, itch much more strongly than mosquitoes. Plus longer.

They hurt

Red blisters on the body itch

Unpleasant sensations are caused by the attack of wasps and bees, which you most likely will not lose sight of. Spiders in the Russian Federation can bite, leaving a couple of marks, but you should not be afraid of them. Moreover, their presence becomes a good prevention of the extermination of insects. Arthropods do not tolerate diseases, unlike the same mosquitoes and flies. Another thing is that they compete with the brave pest control workers who take care of you. However, it’s not that noticeable. Do not cover the whole house with cobwebs. But with a fog, consisting of destroying and repelling agents, it is very easy. In addition, this will give a 100% result of getting rid of uninvited “guests”.

There are also ticks that often hang on the neck, but in some cases they go away. The danger here lies in the large number of disease-carrying individuals. To protect against them, it is necessary to cover trees and bushes near the house with a solution, but that’s another story.

Interesting: most of the blood-sucking inhabitants of the planet inject a kind of anesthesia into the body of the victim so that she does not notice the predator. This is what causes itching. Bees and similar organisms do not feed on humans, and therefore do not need such tools.

Briefly about pest control

Many people are afraid to call SES. They think it’s difficult. In fact, the processing takes less than an hour. Surfaces can be washed and the active ingredients remain odorless and health hazards for up to 2 months. Even after the end of their action, insects prefer not to approach a potentially dangerous area – this is an instinct. For some reason, many people spend time going to the store, buying non-working products (have you heard anywhere other than advertising that all mosquitoes or cockroaches disappear from the spray?). Then the hours go to their spraying. Later, the lack of results, new expenses, etc. are monitored. But you just need to order a professional pest control. One call → 50 minutes → clean house.

articles from specialists of the clinic “Mother and Child”

Vergazova Asya Nikolaevna

Rheumatologist, Endocrinologist

Clinical Hospital “AVICENNA” SC “Mother and Child”

Mosquitoes, midges (a substance that prevents blood from clotting). Therefore, the bite site is very itchy.

At the site of the bite mosquito appears redness and a small blister that itches, the bite itself is not painful. But the bite of the midge is generally not immediately felt. Itching, burning appear the next day, and they are much stronger than with a mosquito bite, plus the midge bite site is very red and swollen.

What to do: To relieve itching, apply something cold (ice). You can also make a compress with a solution of soda (half a teaspoon per glass of water). The bite can be lubricated with an antihistamine cream (gel, ointment) or a special Balm after bites .

Important: care must be taken that the child does not comb the bites, otherwise the wound may become infected. The bite of the midge heals for a long time.

Horsefly

Horsefly is a large fly that loves damp places and sunshine. The bite of this insect is very painful.

A large blister immediately appears at the site of the bite of , which is very itchy.

What to do: Wash the bite with soap and water or treat with an antiseptic. To relieve itching and swelling, you need to apply cold, the same soda compress, antihistamine cream (gel, ointment) will help.

Important: horseflies are completely harmless in the shade and attack only on sunny lawns, closer to water bodies. If the bite is combed, then it will heal for a long time.

Bees, wasps, bumblebees

Bees, wasps, bumblebees, hornets (huge wasps) – these insects do not just bite, they sting and with the help of a sting introduce a strong protein poison into the human body. When bitten, bees leave a sting in the wound, so they bite once, but the rest of the stingers can attack again.

Burning pain, redness, swelling and itching of the skin appear at the site of the bite , the area around the wound becomes hot, if a bee has bitten, then the sting is visible. Sometimes, due to poison, intoxication or severe allergies can occur: the child has a headache, he is weak and lethargic, he is sick or even vomits, he has impaired coordination, his body temperature rises, rarely, but there is also loss of consciousness. The same reaction happens if several insects have stung at once.

What to do: remove the sting if there is one (it is better to do this with tweezers). Wash the wound with soap or treat with hydrogen peroxide. Apply cold. You can lubricate the sore spot with antihistamine cream (ointment, gel) . If the skin develops swelling and severe redness, give the child an antihistamine by mouth. After a bite, you need to watch the baby for about half an hour. In case of complications, a doctor should be called.

Important: if there are several bites, if they are in the mouth, on the face, neck, then it is better to go to the hospital or call a doctor: swelling is very widespread in these places.

Tick

Tick digs into the skin and secretes a large amount of saliva into the wound, along with it pathogens of various infections can enter the human body, the most common: encephalitis and borreliosis (Lyme disease). By itself, the tick bite is not felt in any way

A black dot of different sizes is visible at the site of the bite – this is the tick itself. There is no swelling or itching.

What to do : remove the tick. It is better to do this in an emergency room or hospital, because if there is no skill, then it is easy to tear off the body of the tick, and its head and proboscis will remain in the skin. But if the doctors are far away, then you can try to unscrew the insect with tweezers, like a screw (you can’t pull, just twist it). It is useless to drip oil on a tick and wait for it to fall off on its own. It is advisable to take the removed tick for analysis to find out if it is a carrier of the infection.

Repellents

• These substances protect against bites, but it must be understood that poisons that are dangerous to insects are also dangerous to humans. It is necessary to use repellent only if there are really a lot of insects or their bite causes a strong reaction in the child.
• It is necessary to apply only a baby product with a low concentration of the active substance (up to 10%). The repellent must not contain diethyltoluamide ( DEET ). It is toxic, so in children under 6 years old it is not even used for clothing.
• Do not aerosolize the face – only cream, ointment or gel. Do not treat areas with scratches, wounds, inflammation, lips and eyelids with repellent. It makes no sense to treat skin areas hidden by clothing.
• After the walk, change clothes, take a shower and wash off the remains of the substance from the child.
• If there is an allergy, then it is better not to use the repellent at all.

How to prevent a bite

Preventing an insect bite is easier than treating it later:

• Cover sweet fruits and desserts, otherwise they will attract a lot of insects. Before you give your child juice from a cup or a piece of watermelon, you need to see if a wasp or a bee is hiding there. And after eating, it is worth wiping the baby’s lips with a wet napkin.
• Bright and colorful dresses strongly attract insects. They also love floral scents. So in nature it is better to dress discreetly and not eat sweet food.
• It is better for a child not to walk barefoot on grass or sand – there may be a bee or a wasp sitting there.
• When walking in a forest or a meadow (a place that is very fond of ticks), you need to wear clothes with closed sleeves, trousers with cuffs at the bottom (or tuck them into shoes). Put on a cap or panama on your head. Every hour it is worth carefully examining the clothes and body of the child.

Insects like to bite especially children, because their skin is thin, and blood circulation is very active.

A child can get a wasp or bee sting by inadvertently stepping on an insect with a bare foot, or if the child eats some sweet fruit that the insect has suddenly landed on.