My daughter frequently gets mosquito and flea bites. Can they be dangerous? | Expert Q/A

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Question:

My daughter frequently gets mosquito and flea bites. Can they be dangerous?

Answer:

A mosquito, chigger, flea or ant bite feels irritated. At the bite site you will notice a raised red area, typically less than half an inch across, called a wheal. The wheal itches because it causes inflammation in the skin. Within a day or two, this will go away and the itch will also go away.

Sometimes, if these bites are scratched vigorously and the skin gets damaged, the area can become infected. Look for areas of worsening redness, pus discharge, red streaks and increasing pain or warmth. If it looks like the bite is becoming infected, see a doctor.

By Aneema Van Groenou, M.D.
General Medicine

Content provided on this site is for educational purposes only and should not be construed to be medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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