Bites and Stings Survival Guide
Insects represent more than half of all known living organisms and potentially represent more than 90% of the differing life forms on Earth. Human contact with insects is unavoidable. Although most insect stings are not serious and are only painful for a short time, they can cause a life-threatening, allergic reaction in some people.
Life-threatening reactions to insect stings occur in less than one percent of children in the U.S., according to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology. But here's what you need to know in case you or your child suffers a bite or sting.
The difference between bites and stings
A bite is usually from mouth parts and occurs when an insect is agitated to defend itself or when an insect seeks to feed. Bites from mosquitoes, fleas, bed bugs, cockroaches, and mites are more likely to cause itching rather than pain.
Other types of biting insects that can cause more pain than itching include ticks, spiders, centipedes, millipedes and caterpillars.
A stinging apparatus is usually a sharp organ of offense or defense, especially when connected with a venom gland, and adapted to inflict a wound by piercing. The stinger is typically located at the rear of the animal. Animals with a stinger include bees, wasps, hornets, and scorpions.
Identifying Bites & Stings:
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are generally found near water (pools, lakes, birdbaths) and are attracted by bright colors and sweat. Bites result in stinging sensation followed by a small, red, itchy mound with a tiny puncture mark at the center.
Bees and Wasps
These winged insects are usually found near flowers, shrubs, picnic areas, or beaches. Immediate pain and rapid swelling occur following a sting. A few children have severe reactions, –such as difficulty breathing and hives/swelling all over their body.
Ticks
Ticks are found in wooded areas. They may be unnoticeably hidden on hair or on skin. When attempting to remove a tick do not use matches, lit cigarettes, or nail polish remover. Grasp the tick near the head with tweezers, and gently pull the tick straight out (same rules apply with household pets as well).