Summer days were meant to be spent outdoors! However, you shouldn’t have to worry about bug bites. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Cleveland wants you to know how to protect yourself this summer while also knowing when to seek medical attention.

What Complications Can Come From a Mosquito Bite?

When you experience a mosquito bite, the first instinct is to scratch it. However, when you scratch a bite, it can lead to infection. Mosquito bites can carry a number of diseases, including West Nile virus, Zika virus, malaria and yellow fever. If you start to have dark spots or small blisters where the mosquito bite was, as well as hives and a low-grade fever, seek medical attention for an evaluation.

Ways to Protect From Mosquito Bites

• Use an insect repellent.
• Wear long sleeves and pants to protect skin.
• Limit exposure to mosquitoes.
• Use a mosquito net when sleeping outdoors.
• Wear light colors.

When Is a Bug Bite Cause for Medical Attention?

The short answer? Anytime you’re worried or concerned about the bite or sting. If you don’t feel quite right, it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you have any symptoms following a bug bite or sting that don’t disappear on their own over a few days or that worsen, seek prompt medical attention. Tick bites are also cause for medical attention—bring in the tick if you’re able so it can be tested.

Bug Bite & Sting Prevention

• Don’t swat at bees, wasps or hornets.
• Wear long sleeves and pants to cover skin, particularly in high grass where chiggers are common.
• Do not go barefoot outside.
• Avoid wearing strong perfume or cologne.
• Use insect repellent.

Did you suffer from a really bad bug bite? Visit AFC Urgent Care Cleveland today for a proper treatment plan.