Summer Bugs
Written by Dr. Pia Boben Fenimore
As the weather gets warmer, the vampires with exoskeletons will be out and about looking for that warm, iron rich meal that we provide so readily. I am talking about mosquitos and ticks, of course. Mosquitos are responsible for more deaths worldwide than any other animal. These deaths occur mostly from malaria which, thankfully, is not a problem in Lancaster County, but there are significant illnesses that we should be aware of. Lyme disease, Zika, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and West Nile virus are all anticipated to be reported in our area this summer.
The only thing that is clear about these insect borne illnesses is that we have not even begun to scratch the surface (pun intended) in terms of our knowledge and understanding of these diseases. There are many unanswered questions about these kinds of illnesses but I think the best thing to do is to focus on prevention. So it is important that you become very familiar with bug repellants and how to safely use them for your family. Just like sunscreen, it is a “must use” as we head into the summer.
The EPA has labeled DEET in all of its forms (lotion, spray, towelettes, etc.) as safe for humans, including children. DEET has been shown to be the most effective insect repellent when it comes to ticks and certain species of mosquitos. It should not be applied near the hands, eyes, or mouth. DEET formulas should be washed off after returning indoors. DEET may not be used in children under the age of 2 months. The sprays should not be used in closed spaces where they can be inhaled. The percentage concentration of DEET pertains only to how long its protection will last. 20-30 % DEET has been shown to repel bugs for 8-10 hours so it is probably the strongest strength anyone needs. If a person is DEET-sensitive, then another repellent called Picardin has been shown to be effective and, in some studies, even comparable to DEET.
Other things to remember:
Mosquito netting used around tents and cabins while camping can be quite effective. Netting also is a good idea for your baby’s stroller when you are out at night.
A tick must be attached for at least 24-48 hours and become fully engorged in order to transmit bacteria to its host. This means that checking your child each night thoroughly for ticks goes a long way towards prevention. If you find a tick that is not deeply attached or just crawling around, then there is likely no reason to worry.
To remove a tick, use tweezers to firmly grip the tick close to the skin, pull gently but consistently until the tick releases. This may take a few minutes. If part of the tick is left under the skin, don’t worry! The body will naturally expulse it in a few days; do not cause trauma and dig it out. Wash the area with antibacterial soap until it heals.
Take steps to decrease mosquito breeding grounds near your home. Stagnant pools of water, including kiddie pools, should be eliminated.
Mosquitos are attracted to high temperatures. Since children have higher body temperatures than adults, they are more likely to get bitten. So, never rely on your own assessment of mosquitos biting in an area to decide whether or not your child needs repellent. I hear parents say all the time: “I don’t understand; I did not get bitten once, and he is covered!” Having lots of kids around actually is protective to adults against bites…but not exactly a fair way to repel bugs!
Many children get big welts at the sight of mosquito bites. These are local reactions that do not put them at any increased risk for West Nile, Zika, or other blood borne illnesses. Treat them with hydrocortisone cream and wash daily with antibacterial soap to avoid infection.
Fun fact: Ticks are arachnids, meaning they have 8 legs, but they are actually born with only 6 and then grow 2 more. Mosquitos are insects and have 6 legs total.
For more information: www.epa.org, www.cdc.gov, www.ewg.org, www.healthychildren.org
