Unless you live inside a protective bubble 24/7, insect bites are an inevitable part of life. And since insects like mosquitoes tend to also linger in spaces where we live, work, play and move about, avoiding getting bitten is a good skill to know and cultivate.
But should you be inconvenienced by a mosquito or other insects that bite, here are some handy first-aid tips to keep in mind:
- Move to a safer area to avoid further bites or stings
- If an insect's stinger is still embedded in the skin, remove it through scraping by using the back of a straight-edged object (like a stiff card) across it. Do not use tweezers because it may squeeze the venom sac inside the stinger and cause it to inject more venom into the bite(1)
- Wash the affected area with soap and water
- Apply a cool compress to help reduce the pain and swelling
The mild symptoms of mosquito or insect bites include a skin rash that is accompanied by skin redness, an itchy or stinging sensation, or minor swelling at, and around the affected area. These symptoms usually go away in a day or two. However, if they persists, or if the individual who has been bitten appears to suffer a more severe allergic reaction - difficulty breathing, swelling of lips, eyes or throat, and vomiting - seek consultation with a doctor or emergency services immediately(2).
Topically-applied ointments can provide relief of insect bites and stings when applied directly onto an affected of skin. Look for a product which contains ingredients such as eucalyptus oil and camphor, as it can provide relief of mosquito bite symptoms, such as skin rash.
Both eucalyptus oil and camphor have anti-inflammatory properties that help to relieve pain and the skin itch associated with mosquito bites. Despite these benefits, always remember to follow the package label instructions on the method of application for the ointment, and if there are any age restrictions as well. As an example, ointment can be applied externally to mosquito bite rashes for children aged 2 years and above.
Additional tips for prevention
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. And not getting an insect bite is much more preferable than getting bitten, so here are additional tips to keep in mind:
Cover up
Especially if you're outside at a location where mosquitoes or other insects could potentially linger. Alternatively, you can also choose to wear long-sleeved, light-coloured shirts, loose-fitting pants instead of shorts, and shoes instead of sandals(5).
Slather on insect repellent
If it's too hot to cover up your arms and legs, make sure to apply insect repellent on the exposed areas of skin (your arms, upper arms, and legs), which can be easy targets for mosquitoes and other insects. Look for ingredients like diethyltoluamide (DEET)(6) in insect repellents.
Avoid the application or use of heavily scented products like soaps, shampoos and deodorants, as you might attract the insects yourself.
Be mindful of your surroundings. Be on alert in places where insects tend to live and converge, such as locations with stagnant water, gardens with flowering plants, and trees that have hives on them.
Keep all foods and beverages covered. If you are eating outside, make sure to cover your food or drink, especially sweets, as they are more susceptible to attracting insects(7).
Invest in mosquito screens or netting. If mosquitoes or other insects are troubling you at home, consider putting up a thin screen on your windows and doors to prevent insects from getting inside the house. You can also use bed nets to give you an extra layer of protection against insect bites.
References:
- "Stinger removal." Mediline Plus. Accessed 02 September 2020. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/imagepages/19629.html
- "Insect bites and stings: First aid." Mayo Clinic. Accessed 01 September 2020. https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-insect-bites/basics/art-20056593
- Dhakad, Ashok K et al. “Biological, medicinal and toxicological significance of Eucalyptus leaf essential oil: a review.” Journal of the science of food and agriculture vol. 98,3 (2018). Accessed 02 September 2020. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28758221/
- Zuccarini, P. "Camphor: risks and benefits of a widely used natural product." Journal of Applied Sciences and Environmental Management vol. 13,2 (2009). Accessed 02 September 2020. http://www.bioline.org.br/pdf?ja09027
- "Malaysia: Insect Bite Preventtion." International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers. Accessed 02 September 2020. https://www.iamat.org/country/malaysia/insect-bite-prevention
- "DEET." United States Environmental Protection Agency. Accessed 02 September 2020. https://www.epa.gov/insect-repellents/deet
- "Prevention: Insect bites and stings." National Health Service UK. Accessed 01 September 2020. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/insect-bites-and-stings/prevention/
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