Insect Bites

Itchy insect bites: Apply calamine lotion or a baking soda paste to the area of the bite. If the itch is severe (as with chiggers), apply nonprescription 1% hydrocortisone cream four times a day. Another way to reduce the itch is to apply firm, sharp, direct, steady pressure to the bite for 10 seconds. A fingernail, pen cap, or other object can be used. Encourage your child not to pick at the bites or they will leave marks.

Painful insect bites: Rub the area of the bite with a cotton ball soaked in meat-tenderizer solution for 20 minutes. (Avoid the area around the eyes.) This will relieve the pain. If you don't have any meat tenderizer, mix a paste of baking soda and water. Put cold, moist compresses or ice on the area help. Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain relief.

Prevention