Mosquitoes- those small flies that feed on the blood of their hosts can be quite dangerous not only to adults but also the infants. Babies become the prey of these vector-borne insects quite quickly and most often. Preventing the little ones from this small insect is a matter of concern for all mothers whether it’s in-house or while playing at a park nearby.

Here are a few simple steps about protecting children from mosquitoes quoted by Radhika Patel practicing pediatrician from the United States.

• Do not keep stagnate water in the house uncovered as this gives a breeding area to mosquito

  

• Using home repellents like citronella oil/ pure orange oil is effective in keeping mosquitoes away from children. These oils should be applied on the baby’s clothes and shoes and not on the skin

• Dress the kids with light-coloured clothes that cover their arms and legs. Wearing dark color clothes will attract mosquitoes to the babies

• Using mosquito-proof nets over strollers. This will protect the babies in the open area.

• Using mosquito proof mesh on doors and windows to avoid mosquitoes entering the house.

• Using repellents as per the kid’s age. No repellant should be used for the first two months of the baby’s birth. After which a repellant containing 10% Deet can be used.

• Buring neem or eucalyptus leaves in the room where the baby is during the peak mosquito season will help get rid of these wicked creatures.

• Avoid going out with kids at twilight and evening when mosquitoes work at their best.

There are a few signs by which we can figure out if a mosquito has bitten the baby. The bitten area is usually swollen with the centre turning red. In Rita’s Pregnancy 101 prenatal program, pregnant women are taught these simple yet effective ways to protect their newborns.

The following immediate steps should be taken in case of a mosquito bite:

• For immediate relief put a cold compress on the bite to get rid of the swelling or applying oatmeal paste on the bite will also help to reduce the same.

• Applying aloe vera also helps as it has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce itching.

• Basil paste also helps in keeping mosquitoes away due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-mosquito properties.

• Applying calamine lotion which helps soothe the bitten area.

However, if the bite is accompanied by fever, headaches, or uneasiness then a visit to the doctor is must..

One cannot completely avoid contact with these tiny but harmful insects but one can certainly try keeping them away as much as possible.