Summer is the time to enjoy the weather, not only for adults who love to go to the beach, but also for children who just love to stay out-door and play with other kids. It can also be a time when our family is are exposed to all kinds of elements, including insect bites.
The beach and outdoor, in general, is a favorite hangout for all types of insects, which can either be considered as nuisance pests or vicious carriers of infections. In this case, we don’t want to leave ourselves and children preys to these pests; thus, the need to be prepared when the need arises.
Common insects that bite and their specific symptoms
Midges, mosquitoes and gnats
These insects when they bite cause small papules or lumps that form on your skin and these usually leave a very itching feeling. And if you are quite sensitive to insect bites, it is not far that you may develop blisters that are filled with fluid, called bullae and weals characterized by a circular type of blisters that is filled with fluid surrounding the bite area.
However, mosquito bites in tropical countries can be quite dangerous causing certain infectious diseases such as malaria and H-fever. These conditions can be fatal if not given immediate medical attention.
Sand fly and Horsefly
These types of flies only bite at your skin and then suck the droplets of blood. They hope to be able to fly away even before you take a glimpse of them to swat them. Although they have similar feeding habits, the horseflies, because of its size, can bite more painfully. They thrive in areas near the water so rivers and beach areas are common places you can find these.
Fleas
The flea’s bites can be characterized by groups forming lines or clusters. The most common places this insect bites are below the knee, commonly around the ankles. But if you are fond of holding your pets, you may also experience bites on your forearms.
People who are sensitive to flea bites may result to a condition called popular urticaria that is mainly seen through a number of itchy red lumps. Bullae may also develop.
Bedbugs
Bedbug bites are not usually painful. And if it is your first time to be bitten by these pesky bugs, you may not develop any symptoms. However, if you have already been exposed to its saliva, you may develop intensely irritating weals or lumps. You may usually find the bite marks on your face, neck, hands and arms.
Ticks
It may be the mildest form of insect bite you will ever experience. It usually is not painful and may only develop red lump on the specific spot that you were bitten. In rare cases, certain conditions may occur; such as: swelling, itchiness, blistering, and bruising.
In some instances, they may also carry a bacterial infection called Borrelia burgdorferi that leads to Lyme disease and if not treated immediately it can be fatal.
Preventive Measures
There is nothing better than taking all precautions to avoid being bitten by insects. Children are most susceptible to its adverse effects, so moms please take serious note of the following measures:
- Make sure that you cover-up when outdoors, especially during sunrise or sunset when the insects are mostly present. Put on trousers and long sleeves as well as wear shoes.
- Be aware of any insect nests in your area. If you find any near your house, call for professional assistance to have it removed.
- Have your pets regularly checked and treated for fleas to avoid infestations.
- When you plan to camp, make sure that you look for a spot away from ponds and swamps as these are the common places where mosquitoes and horseflies hang around.
- Do not stay near flowering plants, where there is food being served and near compost or garbage area.
- Avoid using perfumes and other products that have strong scents. These are known attractors of insects.
Let your children make the most of summer and let them bask in the sun and enjoy the outdoors without getting sick due to insect bites. If you would like to look at prevention products check out our insect repellant section http://www.topshopnz.com/InsectRepellant.html if you have been bitten chick out our allergy bites and stinks section http://www.topshopnz.com/AllergicBitesandstings.html