How to Prevent and Treat Mosquito Bites

Posted by Mosquito Squad

March 13, 2015

Mosquito bites can be irritating and annoying. Not only do they cause itching and other allergic reactions, but they can also transmit disease. Knowing how to prevent mosquito bites can go a long way, but even if you do end up getting bit, there are plenty of treatments to help reduce the minor symptoms. For major symptoms, see your doctor for further assistance.

Prevention of mosquitoes is the best medicine against them. The first step in prevention is to ensure proper mosquito control. Hiring a professional mosquito exterminator is the best thing to do so that the experts can get the job done the right way.

Since mosquitoes require standing or stagnant water to breed, avoiding standing water, especially at dusk and dawn when these pests are most active is another way to prevent bites. Eliminating standing water around your homes such as rain gutters, birdbaths, and flower pots filled with rainwater will help as well. You can also wear protective, light-colored clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and long pants and wearing socks. Another prevention measure is to repair any holes in the window or door screens to prevent mosquitoes from getting into your home.

If you happen to get bit by a mosquito, symptoms can occur within 48 hours. Treating these symptoms should be done as soon as possible. For a normal reaction, hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion will help to relieve itching. A cold pack or ice cubes can also help to relieve symptoms.

If the allergic reactions are more serious, there are other treatments that you can use. Taking antihistamines such as Benadryl or Claritin can help. Athlete’s foot mist or a topical anti-itch lotion could also help. If you get hives, take a cool bath without soap. In major allergic reactions for people in danger of anaphylaxis, an EpiPen can be used in case of an emergency.

Mosquito Squad of Chicago is a mosquito control services company that provides professional mosquito extermination in the Chicago land area. Give us a call at (630) 556-8315 to find out how we can help you with your mosquito problem.