Don’t Let the Bugs Bite This Spring

By Dr. Larry Nickens, Goldsboro Pediatrics

It is almost springtime and the outdoors are calling. The trees are turning green and the flowers are blooming. But behind all this beauty are those annoying little insects that can ruin your day with a simple sting or bite. While most insect bites and stings can be mild, some may cause some serious reactions to your children.

The Stingers
If your child is not allergic, normally a red, slightly swollen area that may hurt a little usually follows an insect sting. However the outcome could be a lot worse if you child is allergic. Bees, yellow jackets and wasps all carry a stinger that can cause real problems for a child who is allergic. For a child with symptoms that include wheezing, faintness or shortness of breathe, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

The Biters
Mosquitoes, fleas, ticks and spiders all fall under the category as biters. Again, these are more than likely not so serious bites, but in rare cases they all have risks.

For instance most mosquito bites itch for a few days then go away. Keep in mind that there is a more recent concern of the transmission of West Nile virus to humans from mosquitoes. The good news is that healthy kids, teens and adults under the age of 50 are at a lower risk of catching the West Nile virus.

The leading culprit of ruining a fun day outdoors and camping trips are ticks. These little critters are usually found in heavily wooded areas and need to be removed as quickly as possible when found on the body. One variety known as deer ticks is often known to carry Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.

Spiders, maybe one of the scariest insects in the eyes of a child, but in most cases spiders cause no more than mild swelling or itchiness. However, there are two types of spiders that are found in the United States and can be very harmful if a bite is not cared for properly. The brown recluse and the black widow. If bitten by a brown recluse you may not always have a serious reaction, however in case your child does it may take 6 to 12 hours before any symptoms appear. Swelling of the area may turn into a blister and can lead to skin damage and scarring. It is important to take your child to see a doctor immediately after noticing these symptoms.

Most often people that are bitten by a black widow spider do not even realize it until they see and feel the symptoms. If your child is bitten make sure they are aware of the many warning signs. The venom from the black widow will cause a reaction throughout your child’s body, not just the bite area. Painful cramps in muscles and stomach are likely symptoms, along with nausea, chills and fever. If your child feels any of these symptoms, take your child to the hospital immediately. These spider bites may sound scary but the good news is less than 1% of people will die from a spider bite, however be aware that young children are the most at risk.

Prevention
Don’t let all the creepy crawlers keep you from enjoying the sunshine this spring. Be sure to follow these simple steps to protect you and your family.

Do not disturb bee or wasp nests. Never swat at buzzing insects because they are more likely to sting when they feel threatened.

• Avoid mosquitoes by staying away from still pools or ponds during hot weather. Also mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk so make it indoors before this time, or be sure to wear bug repellent.
• Avoid using scented soaps or other scented products on your children because bugs are highly attracted to these things.
• When using insect repellents make sure to read directions and age requirements for the product. Also spray onto clothing rather than onto skin so that it does not get absorbed and always wash it off as soon as you get into the house.
• When in heavily wooded areas, make sure to check your children for ticks every few hours. The most important places to check are behind the ears, on their scalp, back of the neck and behind the knees. Don’t forget to check your pet too!

Another thing to keep in mind is that insect repellent only keeps away the biting bugs such as mosquitoes. They do not keep away bees, wasps and yellow jackets. To prevent being stung by these insects try dressing your child in light colored clothing and avoid perfumed soaps and lotions. Clean up any picnic areas and pick up garbage that is likely to attract wasps.

Following these simple tips for prevention will allow you and your family to enjoy a worry-free spring. Be sure to keep a close eye on your child if you know that they are allergic to any type of insect. With all this information you are free to enjoy the outdoors without the worries of bug bites or stings.

About Goldsboro Pediatrics
Goldsboro Pediatrics’ goal is to optimize the growth and development of children to ensure their success as healthy, happy and productive adults in tomorrow’s society. Physician offices are located in Goldsboro, Mt. Olive, Princeton and La Grange. For further information, please visit www.goldsboropediatrics.com.