Mosquito Bite Care and Prevention 101

Florida mosquito bites are more than just annoying—they can be dangerous. Mosquitoes use a specialized mouthpart called a proboscis to pierce the skin and feed on blood, potentially transmitting diseases like West Nile virus, Zika, and Dengue. Understanding how to care for bites and prevent them is essential to protecting your family and pets.

How to Treat Mosquito Bites

Proper Cleaning and Topical Treatments

If you’ve been bitten, the first step is to wash the area with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection. Applying a cold compress can help reduce swelling. For relief, consider using natural oils for bug bites like tea tree or lavender oil, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

Over-the-counter mosquito bite itch relief creams containing hydrocortisone or calamine can also be effective. These creams help reduce itching and discomfort. Avoid scratching, as this can lead to mosquito bite scars and secondary infections.

Managing Itching and When to Seek Medical Attention

Persistent itching can be managed with oral antihistamines. However, if the bite becomes extremely swollen, painful, or shows signs of infection, such as pus or red streaks, it’s time to consult a doctor. Also, monitor symptoms if you suspect the bite could be from something else, such as a spider bite or if you’re unsure between flea bites vs mosquito bites.

Effective Strategies for Preventing Mosquito Bites

The Best Mosquito Repellents and Protective Clothing

One of the best defenses against Florida mosquito bites is applying mosquito repellent lotion before spending time outdoors. Look for products that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus for effective protection.

You may also consider natural mosquito repellent for lawns, such as products with essential oils like citronella, peppermint, or rosemary. While not as effective as professional mosquito treatment, these can provide added protection when used in combination with other strategies.

Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks when possible, especially in the early morning and late evening when mosquitoes are most active. You may wonder, can mosquitoes bite through clothing? Unfortunately, the answer is yes, especially through thin or tight-fitting fabrics. Wearing loose, thick fabrics is more effective.

Work with Hulett for Professional Mosquito Control

While DIY strategies can help, nothing compares to a comprehensive approach. A professional mosquito control company like Hulett offers targeted treatments to reduce mosquito populations around your home. This includes identifying and eliminating mosquito breeding places, such as standing water, clogged gutters, and overwatered landscaping, as well as applying effective treatments to shaded areas and mosquito resting sites.

With Florida’s high humidity and year-round warm weather, controlling mosquitoes requires regular maintenance. DIY methods can’t match the results of a professional plan. And if you’re also dealing with no-see-ums, these biting pests require a different treatment strategy altogether—one Hulett can help with, too. The best way to keep mosquitoes away is to take a proactive, ongoing approach. Contact Hulett for a free yard analysis, and let our experts create a custom program to protect your home, yard, and family.

Call Hulett today and discover how our eco-friendly, pet-friendly treatments can help you enjoy your yard again — mosquito-free.