Why is my child reacting to a mosquito bite?

• Once bitten, your child’s immune system reacts to the proteins in the mosquito’s saliva.
• This usually causes itchiness and swelling where the bite happened.  
• Sometimes the immune system remembers these proteins. This means that your child can have more swelling each time they get a bite in the future.  

What are the symptoms of mosquito bites?

• Most common:
  • Itching, swelling and redness at the site of the bite
    • This will usually last for about 36 to 48 hours (about 2 days)
    • The bite area itself can take up to 7 to 10 days to fully resolve

• Mosquito borne diseases:
  • These are not common.
  • Symptoms vary and some children may only have mild symptoms. Symptoms can include:
    • Fever, body aches, nausea/vomiting, widespread rashes, seizures
  • Zika:  can cause joint pain or the whites of your child’s eyes may look red (conjunctivitis)
  • West Nile Virus:  may cause paralysis, more commonly involves the face, and can look like a facial droop  

What can I do to prevent mosquito bites?

• Avoid areas of standing water and be sure to remove any standing water around your house.
• Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn, so indoor activities at these times are best.
• Cover as many areas of your child’s skin as possible, including the use of hats.
  • Mosquitos are attracted to your child’s body odor, skin temperature and breath.
• Use insect repellant on any exposed areas of skin.
  • A repellant with picaridin (best option) or DEET offers the best protection.
  • Be sure to read and follow the directions on the container.
  • Both can be used in children 2 months of age and above. 

What is the treatment for mosquito bites?

• Cool compresses help with swelling and itch.
• You can use anti-itch options like calamine lotion and aloe vera.
• Topical creams like hydrocortisone 1% and diphenhydramine cream can be helpful as well.
• For children 6 months and above a non-sedating oral antihistamine, like Claritin/loratadine or Zyrtec/cetirizine can also be given.
• Tylenol or ibuprofen (6 months and above) can be given for pain or fever.
• If your child is having a more severe reaction, prescription medication may be needed. 

When to call your child’s provider:

• Your child has a fever, body aches, nausea/vomiting, a spreading rash, or seizures.
• Your child’s bite looks infected or is worsening after 48 hours (about 2 days).
• Your child is complaining of joint pain, or the whites of their eyes look red.
• You think your child is having trouble using their facial muscles.
• You think your child needs to be seen. 

This publication was adapted from information within American Academy of Pediatrics Patient Education Handouts, UpToDate Guidelines and Healthychildren.org

Reviewed by: TT D.O, AR D.O. | 10/2023