Mosquito bite

Mosquito bite

A mosquito bite is a common occurrence that results from a female mosquito piercing the skin to feed on blood. The aftermath of a mosquito bite often includes a red bump and itching, which are caused by an immune response from the body to the mosquito's saliva.

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of a mosquito bite include a puncture wound in the skin where the mosquito has bitten, a puffy, white and reddish bump appearing a few minutes after the bite, a hard, itchy, reddish-brown bump, or multiple bumps, appearing a day or so after the bite or bites. Other symptoms can include small blisters instead of hard bumps and dark spots that look like bruises. More severe reactions may be experienced by those with immune system disorders or people who have developed a mosquito-borne disease.

Causes

Mosquito bites are caused by female mosquitoes feeding on your blood. Female mosquitoes have a mouthpart made to pierce skin and siphon off blood. Males lack this blood-sucking ability because they don't produce eggs and so have no need for protein in blood.

Treatment

Treatment for mosquito bites includes washing the area with soap and water, applying an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to reduce itching, and avoiding scratching the area. If a more severe reaction occurs, such as a fever, headache, body aches, or signs of infection, medical attention should be sought.

Prevention

Prevention methods for mosquito bites include using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding areas where mosquitoes are prevalent.

See also

• Insect bites and stings
• Malaria
• Dengue fever
• Zika virus

Mosquito bite Resources
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