By: Lauren McRae

Heading outside this weekend to hike, bike, or camp?

Most of us know to practice vigilant sun safety during the hottest months of the year when the sun’s rays are at their most intense, but sometimes we forget it’s also very important to protect against dangerous insect bites. Warm temperatures are just as appealing to insects as they are to Chicagoans ready to leave a long winter behind.

Most mosquito bites are irritating but otherwise harmless; however, some mosquitoes can transmit encephalitis and West Nile virus, which can cause severe illness with symptoms like headache, high fever and bodily weakness. Ticks can transmit Lyme disease, which can be treated if recognized early, so look for flu-like symptoms and possible rashes. Left untreated, Lyme disease can cause joint and muscle pain, fatigue, heart problems and neurological issues. 

Other than mosquitoes, keep an eye out for kissing bug bites. They look like mosquito bites, but you'll usually find a cluster of these bites in one spot. People who are sensitive to the bug's saliva, may experience a reaction to the bite. This is usually only mild itching, redness, and swelling, but occasionally, a kissing bug bite causes a severe allergic reaction.

Kissing bug bites resurfaced in 2020, but you still need to be aware of them this summer of 2021. Indigenous of South and Central America, this species is formally called triatomine bugs, and they typically bite on the face or lips because they are attracted by breath. According to the CDC, the bug can transmit the Trypanosoma cuzi parasite, which is found in the bug’s feces.

Normally when feeding, the bug generally deposits feces, and if it’s rubbed into the bite wound or into a mucous membrane (for example, the eye or mouth), then the parasite can enter the body. When this happens you can possibly contract Chagas disease, which can cause infection and inflammation of many other body tissues, especially those of the heart and intestinal tract.

Felissa Kreindler, MD, Pediatrician at NorthShore, shares her tips for preventing insect bites and protecting against the illnesses they can cause all summer long:

• Don’t apply perfumes and avoid the use of scented soaps. The sweet scents of soaps and perfumes attract some insects.
• Stay away from stagnant water and heavily wooded areas. Insects, especially mosquitoes, congregate around pools of water. Deer ticks, which carry Lyme disease, are more likely to be in areas with lots of trees and brush.
• Avoid wearing bright clothing. Bright flowery prints also attract insects, including honey bees and hornets.
• Check DEET concentrations on insect repellents before use. Higher concentrations of DEET protect for longer lengths of time. Choose a concentration based on how long you need to protect yourself. Repellents containing DEET should not be used on children younger than six months old and be sure to avoid contact with your mouth and eyes.
• Dress appropriately if you plan to be in a wooded or grassy area. Pants and long sleeves are best and are an excellent way to limit your skin exposure. Once you’re back inside it’s a good idea to shower. Not only will this wash away the repellent, but it may also wash away any ticks that haven’t yet latched onto your body. You’ll also want to be sure to check your entire body thoroughly for ticks (especially your ears, waist, head, belly button, arms, and legs).
• Resist walking barefoot in the grass. Bees can often be on the ground and this will help you avoid being stung. It’s also wise to avoid perfumes and bright colors, as these may attract bees.
• Treat your bites. If you do get bitten and develop a bite that is red or raised try: 1) applying an ice pack for 10-15 minutes 3-4 times a day and 2) taking Benadryl for itching will both provide symptomatic relief from the local insect bite reaction. Bites rarely develop into a skin infection (cellulitis), but this usually takes several days. If there is any question, call your doctor to have it evaluated.
• Know the signs of having a potentially dangerous anaphylactic (rapidly progressing allergic) reaction to a bite. Reactions are most commonly associated with stings by bees, wasps, or hornets. Hives, swelling (of the face, eyes, tongue, and lips), throat tightness, difficulty breathing, vomiting, or feeling faint/lightheaded are all signs of potentially dangerous anaphylaxis, and you should contact your doctor immediately or call 911.
• Protect your pets, too. Your four-legged family members can also get diseases from insects. Make sure to bring and use your pet’s flea and tick repellants.