May 29, 2025

Bug Bite Prevention and Treatment for Kids: What Parents Should Know


Spending time outdoors is a great way for kids to stay active and explore, but it also means exposure to bugs that can bite or sting. Knowing how to prevent bug bites and treat them if they occur is essential for your child’s safety and comfort.

Common Bugs That Bite or Sting

  • Mosquitoes: Known for itchy, red welts.
  • Ticks: Can transmit Lyme disease and other illnesses.
  • Bees and Wasps: Cause painful stings and may lead to allergic reactions.
  • Fleas: Often cause red, itchy bumps in clusters.
  • Fire Ants: Deliver painful stings that can blister.
  • Chiggers: Cause red, itchy welts typically around the waist, ankles or armpits.

How to Prevent Bug Bites

1. Use Child-Safe Insect Repellent: Look for repellents with DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus that are safe for kids.

2. Dress Kids in Protective Clothing: Light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants can reduce exposed skin.

3. Avoid Bug-Heavy Areas: Keep kids away from standing water, thick brush and flower beds where bugs are common.

4. Use Mosquito Nets and Screens: Especially for babies in strollers or outdoor sleeping areas.

5. Check for Ticks After Outdoor Activities: Especially around the scalp, behind ears, under arms and between toes.

6. Keep Outdoor Areas Clean: Remove trash, standing water and food sources that attract insects.

7. Avoid smells: Heavily scented soaps, perfumes or lotions attract bugs.

8. Try natural insect repellents: Castor oil, cinnamon, citronella, cloves, garlic, peppermint, rosemary, sesame oil, spearmint and thyme.

How to Treat Bug Bites

  • For Mosquito or Flea Bites: Wash the area with soap and water, then apply a cold compress to reduce itching. Use over-the-counter anti-itch cream, if needed.
  • For Tick Bites: Remove the tick carefully with tweezers, ensuring the head is removed. Clean the area with soap and water and monitor for any signs of infection or rash. A red “bullseye” rash is a common sign of tick bite.
  • For Bee or Wasp Stings: Remove the stinger by scraping it out with a flat surface (not with tweezers). Apply ice and an antihistamine cream to reduce pain and swelling.
  • For Fire Ant Stings: Wash the area, apply an ice pack and use anti-itch cream as needed.
  • For Chigger Bites: Clean the area and use calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream to reduce itching.

When to Seek Medical Attention

  • Severe Allergic Reaction (Anaphylaxis): Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, dizziness or a rash covering the body. Call 911 immediately.
  • Signs of Infection: Redness, warmth, pus or increased swelling at the bite site.
  • Fever or Rash After a Tick Bite: Could indicate Lyme disease or another tick-borne illness.
  • Multiple Stings: Especially for children with known allergies.

Final Thoughts

Bug bites are a common part of childhood, but with proper prevention and quick treatment, you can help your child stay safe and comfortable. If you have any concerns about your child’s reaction to a bite or sting, don’t hesitate to contact our care team at Goldsboro Pediatrics. Don’t be afraid to get out and enjoy summer!

Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Medical News Today
Children’s Health




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