The Itchy, Bumpy Blues: How to Treat and Prevent Mosquito Bites and Related Conditions
Mosquito bites may be a nuisance, but fortunately, in the U.S., they tend to amount to nothing more than that. Upon being bitten, most Americans experience a bit of swelling and itchiness, and nothing more. However, there are exceptions to this, including stronger allergic reactions to bites and cases of mosquito-borne illness.
Insect and arachnid bites, including ticks, account for approximately 2,000 cases of malaria and 30,000 cases of Lyme disease in the U.S. annually. In addition, millions of people worldwide die of malaria each year. It is helpful to protect yourself against insect bites, not only to avoid pesky welts, but also to prevent potential illness.
Why Blood?
It may sound surprising that both male and female mosquitoes obtain the majority of their nutrition from plant nectar. It is the pregnant females that require blood from a mammal in order to synthesize the protein they need to help their eggs mature. These eggs are then laid on the surface of still water, such as ponds or birdbaths, as they wait to hatch.
Itchy, Bumpy Bites
Infants and children are bitten by mosquitoes more than by any other insect. In fact, mosquitoes tend to prefer children over adults if they have the choice. When a mosquito lands and prepares to feed, the sharp, needle-like components of its mouth pierce the skin, first injecting digestive enzymes and anticoagulants before drawing blood.
Often, the first mosquito bites a child receives produce no reaction at all. Expe...
Source: Conversations with Dr Greene - Category: Child Development Authors: Alan Greene MD Tags: Dr. Greene's Blog Environmental Health Insect Bites & Stings Insects & Animals Outdoor Safety Source Type: blogs
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