Insect Bites
Insect bites are a common problem, especially during warm weather months.
What You Can Do At Home
If the insect bites are itchy and swollen, it’s okay to apply hydrocortisone cream 1% twice a day as needed for 5-7 days. You may also give Benadryl by mouth every 6-8 hours as needed to help with itching.
For prevention, please wear long pants/sleeves and use insect repellent during the early morning/evening times when the insects are out. Insect repellant is fine for children over the age of 2 months if it contains no more than 30% DEET. Spray the repellent on clothing and exposed skin, but be careful to avoid the hands and face. Children should wash off the repellent when they come inside.
When To Call Your Pediatrician
If there is a firm redness that’s spreading, if the area is painful, warm, or if there is crusty drainage that looks like pus, make an appointment to have it evaluated for possible infection. If the office is closed and you are worried about infection, call the provider on call to help you figure out if this can wait until regular office hours.