Mosquitoes live all over the world -- except Antarctica and Iceland. In the United States alone, there are about 200 species. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that only about a dozen types spread diseases that can make people sick, such as West Nile or Zika.
For most people, mosquito bites are more of a nuisance than a serious health concern. But some individuals develop a stronger allergic reaction known as skeeter syndrome, which can lead to more severe symptoms.
Understanding how mosquito bites affect the body -- and how to recognize skeeter syndrome -- can help you better protect yourself and manage symptoms.
Why do mosquito bites itch?
Female mosquitoes bite humans and animals because they need blood to produce eggs. During their short lifespan of just a few weeks, they require multiple blood meals.
When a mosquito pierces the skin, it injects saliva that contains proteins. These proteins can trigger an allergic reaction in the body.
For most people, this results in a small bump that appears within minutes and causes itching for a day or two.
Skeeter syndrome vs. normal bites
While most mosquito bites typically cause only mild irritation, some people are hypersensitive to the proteins in mosquito saliva.
Skeeter syndrome can cause more intense symptoms, including:
- Severe itching.
- Significant swelling.
- Blistering.
- Soreness beyond the bite area.
- Flu-like symptoms that include fatigue.
- Fever.
- Swollen lymph nodes.
If symptoms become severe or do not improve with home treatment, it’s important to contact your doctor or visit an urgent care center.
In rare cases, mosquito bites can trigger a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms like throat swelling, wheezing, difficulty breathing or fainting after a bite mean you should go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.
Severe reactions are more common in children and people with weakened immune systems. Some people might also react more strongly when bitten by a mosquito species they have not encountered before. Skeeter syndrome and anaphylaxis can also happen if you are bitten by many mosquitoes in a short time.
At-home treatments
Even a single mosquito bite can be uncomfortable -- and multiple bites can be unbearable. The following tips can help reduce itching and swelling:
- Wash the bite area with soap and water.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.
- Avoid scratching, which can increase the risk of infection.
- To reduce itching, use oatmeal, calamine-based lotions, over-the-counter cortisone or other anti-itch cream.
- Make a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to the bite.
- Consider over-the-counter antihistamines to help reduce the allergic response.
If symptoms persist longer than expected or worsen despite home treatment, contact your health care provider or visit urgent care.
How to prevent skeeter syndrome
The most effective way to prevent skeeter syndrome and mosquito-borne illnesses is to avoid mosquito bites altogether.
If you spend most of your time indoors, make sure window and door screens are properly installed and in good condition.
When heading outside, these strategies can help reduce exposure:
- Know when mosquitoes are active. Mosquitoes thrive in warm, humid conditions and are typically most active from dawn to dusk. However, some species are active in the evening and at night as well.
- Avoid areas with standing water. Mosquitoes lay eggs in still water, so you’re more likely to encounter them near puddles, ponds, marshes and lakes. Around your home, reduce standing water by emptying items like flowerpots, buckets, birdbaths, trash containers, wading pools and clogged gutters.
- Cover up and treat clothing. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing that covers your arms and legs when outdoors. Dark and bright colors may attract mosquitoes. You can also treat clothing with permethrin, an insecticide that repels and kills mosquitoes and ticks. It is safe for use on clothing and remains effective even after washing. Mosquito netting can provide added protection for babies and small children in strollers.
- Use repellents as directed. Apply an EPA-registered insect repellent that contains ingredients like DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535. Always follow label instructions. Always apply as directed, as some repellents are not recommended for children under 3 years old. Avoid applying repellent to your hands, eyes, mouth or broken skin. If you are also using sunscreen, apply it before insect repellent.
Taking these precautions can help reduce the risk of mosquito bites -- and the more serious reactions associated with skeeter syndrome -- so you can safely enjoy time outdoors.