Tips to help prevent bug bites:
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Apply insect repellent before going outside, following label instructions.
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Cover exposed skin by wearing neutral colored long-sleeved shirts, pants, and hats.
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Stay indoors during dusk and dawn as this is peak breeding and feeding time for bugs.
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Avoid wearing flowery perfumes because insects love flower nectar and may confuse you for one.
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Avoid stepping on ant mounds if you live in an area that has fire ants.
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Stay calm and slowly back away if you see a stinging insect.
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Call pest-control to safely get rid of insect nests in or near your house
If you do happen to get stung avoid scratching it because broken skin can
lead to an infection. Instead, to treat the pain and swelling around the
area of the sting, you can:
- Wash the area with soap and cool water
- Apply a cold, damp washcloth to the area
- Take or apply anti-itch medicine
- Take a nonprescription pain medicine for the pain
Some people do have severe allergic reactions to insect stings called anaphylaxis.
You should call 911 and seek medical attention immediately if you have
trouble breathing, start to swell around the face, eyelids, ears, mouth,
hands, or feet, develop belly cramps, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, feel
dizzy, or pass out. You may be having an allergic reaction, or you might
have contracted a disease from the insect.
Even though there is nothing worse than being attacked by insects while
you're trying to enjoy the beautiful outdoors I hope these tips help
everyone stay healthy this summer.
You can schedule an appointment at the Main Clinic by visiting or calling
307.688.3636. For more information on how to prevent and treat bug bites
you can also visit the
CDC: Travelers' Health.