How to treat and prevent mosquito bites in babies

Mosquito bites on babies can cause discomfort and irritability in our little ones. In some cases, they may become complicated or act as a route for transmitting diseases. That's why, at Farmaciasdirect, we explain how you can prevent and treat mosquito bites on babies and why it matters.

Do mosquitoes bite babies?

Mosquitoes do bite babies; in fact, the mosquitoes responsible for bites are the females, as they need to feed on blood to produce eggs.

Babies tend to be more susceptible to bites, as their skin is more delicate, their immune system is not yet fully developed, and they lack self-control over their movements.

During rainy periods, their reproductive cycle is activated, with eggs laid in watery areas. For this reason, in summer and in areas of stagnant water, mosquito numbers are higher.

How dangerous are bites on babies?

The moment of the bite can be more or less painful. The bite presents with swelling, redness and itching. This swelling can be greater or lesser, as can the itching, which may become very bothersome. Hives or an allergic reaction may even develop.

In addition, the mosquito can be a vector in the transmission of diseases. For this reason, special care must be taken in areas with diseases such as malaria, paludism or the Zika virus, for example.

Mosquito bites on babies: when to see the paediatrician?

Sometimes, bites can become complicated:

• The bite is very large or very red.
• There are many bites within the same period of time.
• The bite is infected.
• Our baby shows significant discomfort or irritability.
• Hives.
• Allergic reaction (watch for symptoms such as: confusion, coughing, difficulty breathing or speaking, swelling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, welts all over the body, etc.).
• If it has occurred in an endemic area for certain diseases.

How to prevent mosquito bites on babies

• Avoid areas of stagnant water.
• Avoid the hours around dawn and dusk.

• Use mosquito nets on windows, cots and prams.
• Dress the baby in long-sleeved tops and long trousers.
• Use mosquito repellent products suitable for their age: these can be found as electric devices, diffusers, patches, room sprays, bracelets and more.
• Apply topical mosquito repellents for babies suitable for their age.

Citronella oil for babies, a key active ingredient to prevent bites

Citronella is a citrus aroma which, thanks to its strong scent, masks the smell of humans and is unpleasant to mosquitoes. For this reason, citronella helps to keep mosquitoes away from the baby, as it repels them naturally thanks to being rich in essential oils such as citronellol and geraniol, which are responsible for this effect.

Is citronella toxic for babies? No, citronella is not considered toxic for babies when used according to recommendations. We advise looking for formulations designed for babies and always following the instructions on the packaging.

The best mosquito repellents for babies

Pranarôm Pranabb Citronella roll-on is a body milk that is easily applied thanks to its roll-on format. It repels mosquitoes thanks to the essential oils of lavender, blue eucalyptus and citronella from Madagascar. Its application provides 7 hours of efficacy. It is applied to babies from 6 months of age, on the arms and legs, 1-2 times a day. It should be reapplied after bathing.

During the first months of life, patches impregnated with citronella can be used, which we place on the cot or pram or on the baby's clothing, and we scratch them according to the manufacturer's instructions.

How to treat a mosquito bite on babies

• Wash the bite with soap and water.
• Avoid scratching.
• Check for signs of infection.
• Apply a soothing product.

Pranabb soothing gel roll-on by Pranarôm

Pranarôm Pranabb soothing gel roll-on is a gel that provides instant relief thanks to its roll-on, which brings a cooling effect to the area and helps the product to absorb and reduce inflammation. It soothes and treats the bite thanks to its formula rich in essential oils of lavandin, corn mint, turmeric and calendula. It is perfect as a repellent for babies from 4 months.

It is very easy to use and, thanks to its size and shape, it can be carried easily.

It can be used on babies from 3 months of age, on the irritated area, 3 to 4 times a day. As it is suitable during pregnancy and breastfeeding, mums can use it too.

Now you know how to treat and prevent mosquito bites on babies. Remember that, if you have any questions, you can consult our pharmaceutical advice service.