International Health Partnership

Posts Tagged ‘mosquitoes’

Insect bites are painful and sometimes dangerous as the insect but also the location of the bite. For a stopgap, it is best to take the right actions from the first moment but as far as possible to avoid bites.

The bites of mosquitoes and horseflies

The bites of mosquitoes and horse flies are among the most common and harmless in our region each summer.

Mosquitoes and horseflies bite to eat, they suck blood and leave after their passage no sting or poison bag.

Unpleasant at the time, they are rarely dangerous unless allergies.

Generally, the mosquito and horsefly bite on areas with few chairs, where venous access is easier (ankles, wrists, behind knees …).

Easily recognizable, the mosquito bite causes severe itching instantly followed by the appearance of a very small localized swelling. The horsefly bite causes almost the same effect as a wasp sting (swelling without itching).

Pain and swelling usually go out spontaneously after a few hours as well for mosquitoes as gadflies.

First aid on a mosquito bite are to limit the effects of itching. Indeed, the main risk for a mosquito bite is to scratch until blood and increase the likelihood of infection. To reduce itching, many antihistamines are creams sold in pharmacies. When the bite becomes infected, the application of an antiseptic cream may prove to be necessary.

In preventative mode, anointed with a product containing citronella offers a good level of protection. The lemon acts as a repellent.

In countries where malaria risk is common, mosquito bites should be avoided whenever possible.