Bug bites not only cause discomfort but can also transmit serious diseases like Zika virus, Dengue, Lyme disease, and Malaria. Expert shares essential tips for protection of children
Essential tips for protecting kids against bug bites, allowing them to enjoy the wonders of nature without worry. (Image: Freepik)
New Delhi: Children should spend more time playing outdoors, which is wonderful for their physical and mental development. However, it’s important to ensure their safety, especially when it comes to protecting them from bug bites. Most insect bites and stings are not poisonous and are usually caused by mosquitoes, flies, fleas, spiders, ticks, bees and beetles. But how to ensure that children are safe and protected outside?
In conversation with News9, Dr Urvi Ashani R&D Head BabyOrgano said, “Bug bites not only cause discomfort but can also transmit serious diseases like Zika virus, Dengue, Lyme disease, and Malaria. Utilising innovative solutions like mosquito repellent roll-ons, parents can confidently support their children’s outdoor adventures while safeguarding their health.”
This article offers essential tips for protecting kids against bug bites, allowing them to enjoy the wonders of nature without worry.
Try to make them wear Long Sleeves Dress: Dressing your children in protective clothing can serve as an excellent defence against bug bites. Encourage them to wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks to minimize exposed skin, making it harder for insects to bite. Additionally, choosing light-coloured clothing can help prevent mosquitoes, as they are attracted to dark colours.
Go for Natural Mosquito Repellents: The use of insect repellents is essential in preventing bug bites. Choose a mosquito-repellent roll-on that has natural ingredients such as citronella oil, which is known to repel mosquitos. Citronella oil keeps the odours of carbon dioxide and lactic acid, making it difficult for mosquitos to find the person they are attacking. Additionally, palmrosa oil, which has antiviral, antiparasitic, and antimycotic effects, can be a useful ingredient in insect repellents. Camphor is also known to keep away insects and can be an effective addition to your bug-fighting weapons.
Avoid peak hours of Bites: When thinking of planning outdoor activities for your children, it is always important to emphasize the timing and location. Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, so try to restrict outside activity during these hours if possible. And try arranging outside play during other times of the day which can help to decrease the exposure to these biting insects. Also avoiding standing water, thick grass, or dense vegetation, which are frequent breeding sites for mosquitoes, helps to limit the likelihood of confronting these pests.
Teach them to maintain Hygiene: Teaching proper hygiene practices to children is essential, especially after outdoor activities where they may encounter bugs. Emphasize the importance of washing hands and body thoroughly to remove any residual scents that might attract insects. Using soap and water, ensure they clean areas prone to sweat accumulation, such as armpits and behind the knees.
Consult the Doctor in Need: Knowing when to seek medical help after a bug bite is crucial for ensuring your child’s well-being. Stay vigilant for signs of allergic reactions or insect-borne diseases, such as severe swelling, difficulty breathing, or fever, which might indicate a more serious issue. If your child experiences any of these symptoms after a bug bite, it’s necessary to seek medical attention promptly.
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