How to prevent and treat mosquito bites
|Published
Malaria has continued to be a serious global issue, with over 240 million infections recorded in 2022. Nearly half of the world’s population remains at risk of contracting this disease.
Despite ongoing efforts to control it, the data suggests that malaria is far from being eradicated.
In 2023, International SOS reported a worrying 15% increase in malaria-related assistance requests compared to the previous year. According to their global assistance data, 57% of these cases were concentrated in Asia, with the mining industry being the most affected.
Meanwhile, 40% of cases occurred in Africa, where the oil and gas, mining, and NGO sectors were hit the hardest.
These figures are consistent with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) findings, which indicate that the African and South-East Asia regions bear the highest malaria burden globally.
The mosquito, despite its short lifespan of just a few weeks, poses a significant threat to human health. Known as the world’s deadliest animal, it kills more people annually than any other creature, primarily through the transmission of malaria.
Anyone who has ever experienced a mosquito bite knows that it can be more than just a minor annoyance. The itching can be intense and persistent. Dr Liza Straub, a family medicine physician at UNC Health, explained to WRL.com that mosquito bites trigger an immune response in the body.
“Mosquitoes have proteins in their saliva, and when these come in contact with our skin, the body sees them as allergens and triggers an immune response,” Straub said. “The body releases histamine, and that’s what causes the bite to itch.”
To avoid mosquito bites, Straub offered some practical advice on prevention and treatment.
Preventing mosquito bites
One of the most effective ways to prevent mosquito bites is to stay indoors during the times when mosquitoes are most active, particularly at dawn and dusk.
Straub emphasised the importance of eliminating standing water around your home, as this is where mosquitoes breed.
“Standing water is a mosquito breeding ground, so if you have things like water tables for your kids or wheelbarrows, dump the water and don’t keep those in the yard,” she advised.
However, mosquitoes can bite at any time of day, so it’s essential to take precautions whenever you’re outside.
Straub recommended minimising exposed skin by wearing pants and long sleeves. For added protection, consider purchasing repellent-treated clothing or applying permethrin to your clothes.
How to treat mosquito bites at home as warmer weather approaches
With spring here, it’s time to get ready for the return of mosquitoes. While these pesky insects are a part of the season, their bites can be more than just a minor annoyance.
If you do get bitten, you’ll likely notice a small, reddish bump that itches. But as tempting as it may be, try not to scratch.
“Scratching can break the skin and expose you to bacteria and a secondary infection,” Straub explained. “Use a cold compress to decrease the itchy reaction and put a bandage on the bite so you won’t scratch.”
Straub recommended using a cold compress or ice over over-the-counter anti-itch creams or lotions.
“In general, I don’t recommend topical diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or benzocaine,” she said. These products, she noted, can irritate the skin, and if someone is allergic to them, they might have a secondary allergic reaction.
If you’re looking for an over-the-counter product, Straub suggested choosing one with ingredients like pramoxine, camphor, or menthol.
These are more effective at reducing itchiness while posing a lower risk of skin reactions. Additionally, taking a non-drowsy antihistamine, such as cetirizine (Zyrtec), can also help alleviate the discomfort.
For a more natural remedy, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended a simple paste made from one tablespoon of baking soda mixed with water. Apply this to the bite for about 10 minutes to help reduce the itch.
When to see a doctor for a mosquito bite
In most cases, mosquito bites stop itching and fade away within a few days. However, if you notice signs of infection –such as redness, swelling, warmth, or increased size and pain – you should contact your doctor, visit urgent care, or use virtual care services.
Furthermore, if you develop flu-like symptoms after a mosquito bite, or if you’ve recently travelled internationally and got bitten, it’s important to consult your doctor about the possibility of a mosquito-borne illness.
Taking these precautions and knowing how to treat bites can help you enjoy the warmer months without letting mosquitoes ruin your fun.