Five Ways to Safely Protect Kids from Summer Insects ​

We all enjoy the outdoors and activities we take part in while outside during the summer months. While the days are longer, our backyards and outdoor living areas seem particularly inviting; however, one thing we could all agree on is how pesky the insects and bugs can be!
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Protecting your loved ones from insect bites and other bug-related illnesses is an important part of parenting. AGC Pediatrics has these five simple tips to help your children avoid irritating bites and any potential ailments that can accompany them.

Bug Safety

  1. Avoid bug sprays for children under the age of two months. Children this young shouldn’t be covered directly with any spray, instead use a clip on bug repellant or ensure your child stays in an environment where they won’t be bitten.
  2. Limit your attractiveness to bugs and insects. Avoid scented soaps, lotions, or hair products, as these can attract pests. Avoid areas where insects like to gather such as trash cans, gardens in bloom, anthills, wood piles, and standing water. Mosquitos also enjoy dusk, avoid the evening hours whenever possible to escape their bites.
  3. When using bug spray, be aware of the amount of DEET contained in it. DEET is the active ingredient in most bug sprays. Most products have between 10% and 30% DEET. The American Association of Pediatrics recommends avoiding use of products with more than 30% DEET on children. The amount of DEET will determine how frequently you need to reapply the spray. For instance, products with about 10% DEET may only be effective for up to two hours. Additionally, avoid products that contain both DEET and a sunscreen; the sunscreen will often make the DEET less effective. 
  4. Never apply bug spray directly to the face. Spray the repellant into your hand and apply to your face manually, avoiding the mouth, eyes, and nose. Avoid applying repellents to cuts, wounds, and irritated skin.
  5. Be aware of your surroundings and your children. Check children after playing outdoors for ticks or tick bites. Look for any skin irritations or rashes after outdoor activities. If your child is bitten, check for an allergic reaction and monitor the child after all activities. Be cognizant of all mosquito and bug-borne illnesses in the area and monitor your child if they present any of the symptoms. Some of these symptoms may be delayed in presenting themselves, so be conscious and aware of your child’s health long after they’ve come inside.  

Visit AGC Pediatrics in Cartersville & Calhoun

If your child is experiencing symptoms related to a sting or bite, call 911 immediately. This reaction could be life threatening.

​AGC Pediatrics offers children summer wellness checkups, allergy services, and behavioral medicine. Schedule an appointment today, call 706-625-5900.