Summer is a time for enjoying the outdoors—but it also brings out plenty of insects that can cause discomfort, irritation, and even illness. In Delaware and throughout the United States, dealing with mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects is part of summertime life. While many insect bites are harmless, they can lead to itchy, painful skin reactions and sometimes more serious health risks like Lyme disease.

Dr. Antonio D. Zarraga of Bayhealth Primary Care, Milford, offers practical advice to help you stay protected and treat bites effectively if they occur. Understanding prevention strategies and recognizing symptoms early can make your summer healthier and more comfortable.

Why Insect Bites Matter

Discomfort and Potential Risks

Although most insect bites result only in mild symptoms like redness, swelling, and itchiness, certain bites can transmit diseases. Mosquitoes and ticks, in particular, are capable of spreading illnesses that can lead to more serious health concerns if left untreated.

Common Reactions to Insect Bites

Typical reactions to insect bites include:

• Redness and swelling

• Itchy skin

• Pain or tenderness

• Mild fever in some cases

In rare situations, insect bites can trigger severe allergic reactions requiring immediate medical attention.

Best Prevention Tips for Insect Bites

Use Insect Repellents Wisely

One of the best ways to avoid insect bites is by applying an effective insect repellent. Dr. Zarraga recommends repellents containing DEET, a proven ingredient that can repel insects for 4–5 hours.

• Safe for Children: DEET is considered safe for kids over the age of 2.

• Proper Application: Apply to exposed skin and clothing, but avoid hands, eyes, and mouth when applying to children.

• Don’t Fear DEET: When used as directed, DEET is safe and very effective.

Dress for Protection

Wearing appropriate clothing can greatly reduce your chances of being bitten:

• Long-sleeved shirts and pants

• Light-colored clothing to spot ticks more easily

• Closed-toe shoes and hats when hiking or spending time in wooded areas

Timing Your Outdoor Activities

Mosquitoes are most active during early morning and dusk hours. If possible, plan your outdoor activities for midday when mosquito activity is lower.

Dealing with Mosquito Bites

Symptoms and Immediate Care

If you are bitten by a mosquito:

• Topical Treatments: Apply Calamine lotion or a steroid cream to reduce itching.

• Oral Antihistamines: Taking a nighttime antihistamine like Zyrtec can help manage allergic reactions and aid sleep.

• When to Seek Help: If swelling is severe, spreading, or associated with breathing difficulties, seek medical attention immediately.

Allergic Reactions

For those with severe allergies, a mosquito bite can trigger an anaphylactic reaction requiring an EpiPen and urgent medical care. Fortunately, this is rare.

Understanding the Risks of Ticks

Ticks in Delaware: A Serious Concern

Ticks are more than just annoying—they are a serious health concern in Delaware. The state ranks eighth nationally for Lyme disease, a bacterial infection transmitted through tick bites.

How to Protect Against Ticks

• Wear protective clothing when hiking or gardening.

• Use tick repellents on clothing and exposed skin.

• Perform full-body tick checks after being outdoors.

Safe Tick Removal

If you find a tick:

• Remove it promptly using fine-tipped tweezers.

• Grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible and pull upward steadily.

• Do not use nail polish, petroleum jelly, or heat to try to detach the tick.

Recognizing and Treating Tick Bites

Monitoring After a Tick Bite

Not every tick bite results in illness. Dr. Zarraga advises:

• Watch the bite area for three days.

• If no symptoms develop within this window, it’s unlikely that treatment is needed.

Signs of Lyme Disease

Symptoms of Lyme disease include:

• A bull’s-eye rash (although fewer than 50% of infected people develop this rash).

• Fever, chills, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes.

Testing and Treatment

• Timing is Critical: Lyme disease antibodies take about a month to appear, so early testing is not always accurate.

• Treatment: Doctors often start treatment based on symptoms and history rather than waiting for a positive test.

FAQs

Q1: Are insect repellents with DEET safe for children?

A: Yes, DEET repellents are safe for children over 2 years old when used as directed. Always avoid applying on hands, eyes, and mouth.

Q2: What should I do if I find a tick on myself or my child?

A: Use fine-tipped tweezers to gently and steadily remove the tick. Avoid using home remedies like petroleum jelly or heat.

Q3: How long does it take for Lyme disease symptoms to appear?

A: Symptoms can take 2 weeks to a month to appear after a tick bite. Watch for a bull’s-eye rash and flu-like symptoms.

Q4: When are mosquitoes most active?

A: Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk. Plan outdoor activities during midday when mosquito activity is lower.

Q5: What can I do to relieve itching from insect bites?

A: Apply Calamine lotion, use a steroid cream, or take an oral antihistamine like Zyrtec at night to reduce itching and swelling.