• Knowledgebase: Child Safety, Injury Prevention and Treatment

    Questions about child safety and injury prevention, as well as treatment for minor injuries.

    24. My child reacts severely to insect bites; what can I do? - Top

    O: My child reacts severely to insect bites; what can I do?

    A: Insect bites of all types are a problem for everyone, especially in the summer. Some people are more sensitive than others and their reaction to bites are larger and itch more. The first step is prevention. As much as possible, avoid situations where insect bites are prominent (playing in wooded areas, areas of stagnant water or areas with high grass or weeds). The next level of protection is insect repellents. The most effective insect repellent is diethyltoluamide (DEET) which is highly effective against mosquitoes, ticks, fleas and chiggers. Products containing high concentrations (50% to 100%) may be toxic to infants and children. Toxicity can occur even with lower concentrations (10 - 15%) with prolonged use. Therefore, we recommend short term useage and not to be used with children under 7 years of age. For these younger children, use non-DEET containing insect repellents. The proper use of clothing can be helpful with good coverage and especially tucking pants legs in mocks or boots when walking in the woods. Clothing can also be sprayed with a permethrin spray (Permanone Tick Repellant). Another item especially for mosquitoes is an Avon product called Skin So Soft. This does not work for everyone, but many people report good success.

    After the bites have occured, the best approach is to do things to reduce the body's reaction to the bites. You should give your child an antihistamine such as Benadryl to reduce the histamine reaction and itching. Also you can use a 1 %. hydrocortisone cream to reduce the reaction (this is available over the counter).
    - Updated: June 5, 2001

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    • James L Horwitz, MD

    David C. Thomas, MD

    Barbara Lindberg, PNP