Children’s health: How to protect your family from bug bites and stings
We have finally made it to the dog days of summer, and with all the fun and excitement of warmer months comes the constant battle against pests as we spend more time outdoors.
According to the pest control company Orkin, Chicago ranks second in the country for mosquito activity, highlighting how families across Chicagoland may need to be more diligent in protecting themselves from all the bites and stings that are out there.
“The best way to protect our children from insect bites is to keep their skin covered with long sleeves and pants, specifically when going hiking in a forest,” said Dr. Nour Akhras, pediatric infectious disease specialist at Ascension Illinois.
“Of course, in the summer heat, that may feel unattainable, so protecting our kids with an insect repellent can be particularly helpful.”
Remember to apply an insect repellent containing DEET to exposed skin.
Ticks in particular are more prevalent this summer. The CDC has reported a rising number of emergency department visits due to tick bites across the Midwest. So, if your child is playing in tall grass or wooded areas, perform a thorough head-to-toe tick check before entering the house.
If you find a tick, use fine-tipped tweezers to grab the tick right at the skin. Pull straight up — no twisting — then clean the area well with soap and water or alcohol. Avoid old tricks like using matches or nail polish, as these can actually cause the tick to release more fluids into your blood.
“When we think about tick bites, the major disease people should be aware of is Lyme disease. It is important to note that the risk of acquiring Lyme disease from a tick is relatively low, and daily tick checks after the children have been outdoors helps reduce the risk of acquiring Lyme disease,” Dr. Akhras said.
“Remember to check your pets as well, as they can carry a tick inside the house.”
It is encouraged to seek medical help if a rash appears after encountering a tick, especially if you see an expanding red or “bullseye” pattern, if your child develops flu-like symptoms, or if there are other general signs of infection.
Other insect complications manifest in different ways. It is advantageous to avoid ponds and still bodies of water because that’s where mosquitoes typically congregate.
To avoid bee and wasp stings, keep food and drinks covered when eating outside. If your child is allergic to stings, always ensure you carry an EpiPen.
“Most bee stings cause only temporary pain, redness, and swelling. However, some people can have a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency,” said Dr. Stephen Pichler, chair of Pediatrics at Ascension Saint Alexius Women and Children's Hospital.
“Call 9-1-1 immediately if someone has trouble breathing, wheezing, swelling, hives, dizziness, fainting, or repeated vomiting after a bee sting. If the person has been prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector, use it right away and then seek emergency medical care.”
For a typical bee sting, Dr. Pichler also recommends removing the stinger, washing the area with soap and water, applying ice to the affected area, and utilizing age-appropriate pain-relief medication.
• Children's health is a continuing series. This column was provided by Ascension Illinois.