Curious Parents Family Health Resources

summer fun

Bee-ware: Bug Bites & Stings

By Jamie Lober

Summer brings longer days, endless outdoor fun-and bug bites. “In this part of the United States, given our humidity and the amount of rain we get, this is the season for sure,” says Dr. Jeffrey Blackman of Advocare Pediatrics in Marlton, N.J. In Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, mosquitoes, bees and hornets are most common during this season. When you understand how to prevent bug bites and treat them if necessary, summer will become more enjoyable.  

Although you cannot stop bugs from sharing your environment, you can act preventatively. “Try to avoid being outside during times when the mosquitoes seem to come out, like the early morning hours and at dusk,” says Blackman. Your child should cover up, even though it may not always be easy in the summertime. “Often times wearing light colored clothing can be helpful. Darker colors seem to attract more insects and bugs than lighter colored clothing,” he added. 

If you have a bird bath in your backyard, you should dump out the water and refill it daily if possible. Make sure to keep your grass trimmed. Take the time to look around your child’s play set, particularly for holes in the wood where hornets, bees and wasps like to build homes. If you are planning to be outdoors for a long period of time, try not to wear a scent or perfume, as it may attract bugs. Tell your child to avoid running or swatting at the sight of bees, and set an example by acting calm. Besides, bees are typically more afraid of your child than he is of them. 

Wear an insect repellent that is age-appropriate. Off! Skintastic is considered safe and prepared specially for infants and small children. DEET, a stronger insect repellent, is recommended for children above a year of age without skin sensitivities or allergies. When you protect yourself, you are avoiding disease. “In Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey, Lyme Disease is quite prevalent, especially in the summer months,” Blackman said. 

Remember: bugs can be indoors too. Keep your house clean and avoid standing water nearby. “Have screens on the house. You can spray the garden with insecticides that diminish mosquitoes and other insects,” suggests Dr. Lawrence Charles Parish of Parish Dermatology in Philadelphia. You may not realize that when your pet takes a walk or plays in the yard, he can become a carrier. “As far as fleas, it is important that the dogs and cats be treated by the veterinarian or have flea collars,” says Parish. As a member of your family, your pet deserves excellent care. 

If your child gets a bug bite or sting, he will certainly know it. “Children under three often develop little red bumps that look different from the mosquito bite that an adult gets. It is just a different immunologic reaction. Adults respond with a red, elevated tide-like reaction,” says Parish. The symptoms of itching and scratching are usually worse at night. It is easier to manage when you are prepared by having a home first-aid kit available. 

Remember that bee and wasp stings can be dangerous if your child is allergic. Your child’s reaction may be localized, such as itching, swelling or feeling warmth; or systemic, such as swelling of the face, shortness of breath and hives. It is important to immediately visit your physician if you are in this situation. 

There are several treatment options. Most of the time, you can manage bug bites and stings at home. “Cold compresses or ice help with itching and swelling. Some mild over-the-counter hydrocortisone can help as well, sometimes calamine lotion and occasionally topical Benadryl,” says Blackman. If your child is stung by a bee, you should mix water and baking soda and apply it to the bite or use calamine lotion. Every few hours, it is recommended to put a washcloth with ice inside on the area. 

Other times, it may be necessary to see your pediatrician or dermatologist. “On occasion, some children get severe local reactions which may include severe swelling, sometimes pain and redness,” says Parish. “Occasionally, if scratched a lot, those insect bites can become infected and that could lead to soft tissue infections of the affected area,” warns Blackman. Parish stresses coming in for a visit if you are uncertain about your bug bite. “When the parent is not sure what it is, come to the dermatologist. When the area has been scratched too much, then it is a good idea to see the dermatologist because it might be a bacterial infection.”

Taking control of your skin health involves being aware of your environment and avoiding bug bites. When you take precautions, you will have a bee-autiful summer. 

Jamie Lober is a freelance writer.