The Worst Culprits
In North America mosquitoes are the worst culprit. They generally come out in the evening and at night and will breed in damp areas or stagnant water. Mosquitoes bite to draw blood and will leave a red, itchy bump on the skin. In rare cases in North America mosquitoes can cause malaria or west nile. These diseases are more common when travelling to third world countries so precautions should be taken in those cases.

To protect against mosquito bites wear light coloured, loose fitting clothing. Use a mosquito net over you bed when camping to keep them off your skin. Tip out any containers that can trap water to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in your yard. Using insect repellents on your skin will help prevent them from biting and citronella candles or bug zappers in the garden will help to keep them away. Make sure to read the labels of any repellents before applying them to the skin.

Ticks are also common in North America and are typically found in long grass. Ticks burrow into the skin causing an irritation and can lead to lyme disease. To protect against ticks when hiking or walking the dog wear long pants or high socks. Pets will also need to be protected so speak to your vet about ways to prevent tick from attaching to your pets. When you return from a walk brush off any exposed skin gently and check for ticks. If you find one attached to the skin take care in removing it. Do not pull it straight out as the head will be left in the skin.

Other common insect irritants are stings from bees, wasps and hornets. Prevent stings by staying away for nests and avoid angering the insect. If stung remove the stinger if left in the skin and treat the affected area. It’s important to be extra cautious when there is an allergy to a sting. Allergies may result in swelling, difficulty breathing or fever. In serious cases seek medical attention immediately. If an allergy is known an epi pen or other treatment should be carried with you at all times and you should make those around you aware of your allergy.

Treatments
Itching is the most common irritation with most bites and can be treated with an antihistamine. If you don’t have an antihistamine, like Benadryl, around the house try some of these household items as treatment.

Salt can be used and an anti-bacterial treatment and is effective in reducing itching and inflammation. Mix a teaspoon of salt with a little bit of water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the affected area and leave it on as long as needed. Remove the paste with a soft, damp cloth. Another trick is to dissolve salt in water and put the mixture into a spray bottle to apply to the skin.

Apple cider vinegar is another effective remedy for bites and stings as it neutralizes the venom without causing inflammation. It also has a cooling action which relieves pain and itching.

Although not as common around the house essential oils also make great natural treatments for bites and stings. Basil oil will neutralize toxins from spider bites decreasing the irritation. Apply directly to the infected area and cover with a band aid. Lavender oil will sooth irritated skin quickly and disinfect the area and is effective on minor stings and bites. Aloe vera gel will also sooth irritated skin and encourage the healing process. Tee tree oil is also a well known antiseptic and can be used to heal common skin infections.

Taking steps to prevent and protect against insect bites and stings will make your time in the yard, at the beach or on the campsite more enjoyable this summer.