Despite all the steps we take to protect ourselves from mosquitoes, they still seem to find their way to us. So, what happens when a mosquito bites and why are they so itchy? Let’s take a look.

How does a mosquito bite?

The female mosquito will start to feed after landing on a person’s skin. Her mouthparts contain sharp bristles and tubes. The bristles slice a hole in the skin, which allows the female mosquito to probe in the tissue until it strikes a small blood vessel, or capillary. Then two tubes are inserted into the blood vessel or capillary, with saliva flowing through one tube, and the person’s blood being sucked up through the other. The saliva acts as an anticoagulant that allows blood to flow more easily. The proteins contained in the saliva cause the human immune system to react in the form of uncomfortable itching.

Why do mosquitoes bite?

Only female mosquitoes feed on blood because it’s required for egg development.

Why do mosquito bites itch so much?

That itchy sensation you feel after getting bit is the human body’s natural reaction to mosquito saliva. This leads to the immune system producing histamines, which cause the nerves to itch due to increased blood flow. When too much histamine is released, the area around the bite can swell up and turn red in addition to itching.

What can I do to relieve the itching?

First things first: Stop. Scratching. This will only result in the skin becoming more inflamed and irritated. You also run the risk of breaking the skin, causing an infection, and—you guessed it—more of an itch.

For temporary relief, you can press something cold to the area to reduce blood flow. Ice or a cooling pack should do the trick. Otherwise, calamine lotion or an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can reduce inflammation and itchiness, helping the bite to heal faster.

How long do mosquito bites last?

The duration of a mosquito bite will vary from person to person. Sometimes the itching lasts as little as a few minutes or as long as a few days, depending on irritation. But as you might already know, it’ll last longer the more you itch.

Now that you’ve got the basics of mosquito bites down, you can be better prepared in helping to protect your family.

CLOTHING

Can clothing help protect against mosquitoes?

Yes, but clothes only provide a limited line of defense against mosquito bites.

What kind of clothing works the best?

Tightly woven, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and anything that covers up the body can protect your child from mosquito bites. However, it’s best to go with loose-fitting clothes as mosquitoes can sometimes bite through tight-fitting material.

Do colors matter?

Mosquitoes are more attracted towards dark colors. So, opt for something light colored when you and your kids play.

MOSQUITO INSECTICIDES

How can insecticides help?

When playing, kids may find long, tightly woven clothing uncomfortable. This is where insecticides can come into play. Try the All Out^® Liquid Electric, it can provide the mosquito protection your children need to have the care-free fun they deserve. Read directions before use.

Compare our products here.

INSIGHTFUL PROTECTION

Are mosquitoes more active during certain times of day?

Different types of mosquitoes are active at different times of the day, so it’s important to protect your children when they need it most.

How can I help prevent mosquitoes in my home?

There are easy things you can do around the house to help keep mosquitoes away. Check your window and door screens for any tears or holes to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. Using central air or air conditioning while keeping the windows closed can also help.

Get more information on the little areas you need to watch to help keep mosquitoes away here.

With these simple tips, keeping children protected from mosquitoes doesn’t have to be a chore.

Dengue fever is caused by any one of four related viruses transmitted by certain species of mosquitoes, such as Aedes aegypti, which commonly bites during the day. As many as 400 million people are infected yearly.

How can I beat the mosquito that may carry dengue fever?

The key is to prevent mosquito bites, of course, but also to prevent mosquito breeding. To help prevent mosquito bites, try Protecol® Ultra Power+ Fan. It kills Dengue and Malaria Mosquitoes 30% faster.* To help prevent mosquito breeding, we have a few tips and tricks you can try at home:

• Get rid of old tires where rainwater can accumulate
• Cover water tanks and cisterns
• Avoid storing water in vases
• Remove old bottles and cans
• Store garden tools
• Do not leave kids’ toys outside
• Empty kiddie pools when not in use and change water at least two times a week.
• Clean gutters
• Always remember to replace the water in vases at least twice a week
• Ensure that pets have fresh water in their bowls and change water at least twice a week
• Install screens on all windows and doors

*Knocks down 30% of dengue and malaria carrier mosquitoes faster in fan vs. normal mode when first turned on based on lab tests.

Where is Dengue most common?

The dengue fever virus is a leading cause of illness and death in the tropics and subtropics.

What are the signs and symptoms?

According to the World Health Organization, the most common symptoms are:

• Fever of around 40°C
• Severe headache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Muscle and joint pains
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Swollen glands
• Rash

If the sufferer also experiences severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, bleeding gums, fatigue, restlessness and blood in vomit, they may have developed sever dengue. In this case, hospital care is necessary. Always contact your personal physician when in doubt or if you suspect disease.

Learn More About Dengue Fever

World Health Organization—Dengue and severe dengue

Disclaimer: This is provided for your information only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Should you have any symptoms or concerns, please contact your doctor.