Female mosquitoes bite humans and animals to obtain a blood meal necessary for egg maturation. Sadly, a mosquito bite is more than just an irritating itch. Infected mosquitoes can spread disease pathogens such as Zika virus, Chikungunya, Dengue, and West Nile Virus. Jacksonville pest control companies can assist in eliminating the tiny bugs from your lawn, keeping you and your family safe.
Mosquitoes seem to target victims wearing darker colors such as green and black. Research also shows there’s a blood type that attracts mosquitoes from particular species. Your apparel, blood type, and body heat can lure more mosquitoes, increasing your chances of suffering itchy bites.
What Do Mosquito Bites Look Like?
A mosquito’s bite results in a reddish, swollen bump that appears a few moments after the blood meal. The tiny insects use a special mouthpart known as proboscis to suck blood. As they feed, the mosquitoes inject saliva into the skin. The enzymes in the saliva prevent blood clotting and blood vessel constriction.
The body’s reaction to the saliva results in a hard, itchy, reddish bump on the bite site. Some individuals may develop small blisters or dark spots that resemble bruises. Severe allergic reactions can result in:
- Hives
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever
These severe reactions are more common in children, people with immune system disorders, and individuals bitten by novel mosquito species.
How To Stop Mosquito Bites From Itching?
Mosquito bites can easily ruin your outdoor experience as you repeatedly scratch your skin to ease the itch. Here are steps you can take to relieve the itching.
- Wash the bite site with soap and rinse thoroughly.
- Hold an ice pack over the area to reduce the swelling.
- Add a tablespoon of baking soda to just enough water to form a paste. Rub the paste on the bite site.
- Alternatively, buy an over-the-count anti-histamine cream to relieve the itch.
Avoid scratching the bite which might create sores that become infected. If the itch persists, seek medical attention.
What To Put On Mosquito Bites
You may also consider additional home remedies to relieve the nasty itch. Give one of these techniques a try.
- Toothpaste: Mouth cleaners with peppermint or baking soda additives can reduce the swelling and the itch. Rub a dab of the paste on the bite site and let it dry.
- Salt: Table salt has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Create a topical paste for some itch relief.
- Aloe Vera: Applying the plant’s gel over the irritated area can help reduce the inflammation on your skin.
- Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has anti-inflammatory properties that help manage burning sensations. Soak a washcloth in vinegar and rub it over the bite.
The homemade remedies may not always work. If the condition worsens, stop the treatment and seek medical attention.
How to Keep Mosquitoes Away From You And Your Family
The best way to protect yourself from itchy mosquito bites is to get rid of mosquitoes from your property. Here are seven tips to give you a start.
- Treat standing water for mosquitoes.
- Inspect and repair your bug screens.
- Apply baby lotion for mosquitoes on your kids while outdoors to repel the bugs.
- Prepare a blend of essential oils to deter mosquitoes.
- Clean up your yard waste.
- Use fans and citronella candles while outdoors.
- Hire a professional pest control company in Jacksonville to spray your yard.
Combining two or more techniques can provide better protection from the pesky buggers–the most effective being consulting pest control experts.
Trad’s Pest Control can create an integrated pest management program for your home to eliminate the biting bugs from your property. Our products and techniques are eco-friendly, keeping you, your kids, and your pets safe. Contact us today to discuss your mosquito problem in Jacksonville and how we can solve it.