Is My Mosquito Bite Infected? Or Am I Allergic to Mosquitoes?

Unsure If You're Allergic to Mosquito Bites or If the Bite Is Infected?

In the land of 10,000 lakes where the mosquitoes are the state bird, you are undoubtedly familiar with the classic red itchy bump that accompanies a mosquito bite in Minneapolis. Have you ever watched a mosquito bite swell bigger than normal, or look redder than usual, and wondered what is going on? Have you wondered if you are allergic to mosquito bites? Have you wondered if your mosquito bite has somehow become infected? There is a difference, and it is important to know the difference so proper mosquito-bite treatment can be applied.

Take a look at what the differences are between a mosquito bite allergy and an infected bite from our mosquito control professionals.

Mosquito Bite Allergies & Reactions

Mosquito bites cause a reaction in most people’s bodies, some more severe than others. A slight swell and itchy red bump is the typical reaction. The female mosquito (males don’t need blood meals) injects saliva into your body to thin the blood and prevent coagulating for easier drinking. This mosquito saliva is the source of the mosquito bite reactions. However, some people are more sensitive to and even allergic to the saliva which can heighten the reaction. For instance, babies and small children can have a more swelling and a brighter red reaction due to their young sensitive skin. Bruising can even occur for those with the highest sensitivities.

Systemic Mosquito Bite Reactions

Although rare, those with a severe allergy to mosquito bites can experience nausea, hives, vomiting, wheezing, and swelling around the lips and mouth. Fever, asthma, and anaphylactic shock can even occur. Those who may have an allergic reaction to mosquito bites should seek medical care immediately.

Skeeter Syndrome

Skeeter Syndrome is the name given to the severe local reaction to mosquito bites that occurs for some. Swelling can cause an entire limb to become twice its normal size within hours of being bitten. Sometimes it may take up to 48 hours after being bit by a mosquito for a serious allergic reaction to appear.

Mosquito Bite Infections

Don’t scratch it! Mosquito bites can easily become infected, especially if they have been scratched open. Infections are caused when bacteria enter the body through an opening like a mosquito bite. An infected mosquito bite will likely become brighter red and swell bigger than normal. Infections can happen over time and are accompanied by a fever once they set in. Be sure to seek medical treatment if you think you have an infected mosquito bite. If you rip open a mosquito bite, keep it clean and covered with antibacterial ointment.

Treating a mosquito bite depends heavily on the reaction. Cortisone is the best source for itch relief in a normal reaction. Be sure not to scratch, or you can cause an infection. Keep mosquito bites clean and dry. Infections should be treated with antibiotic ointment, but you should see a doctor if the bite becomes very red and swollen accompanied by a fever.

Worry Less About Mosquito Bite Allergies & Infections with Mosquito Squad

Avoiding mosquito bites is the best way to avoid mosquito bite reactions big or small. Mosquito Squad is proud to offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on our mosquito barrier treatment that reduces mosquitoes on your property by up to 90%. Call today!