Insect bites and stings

At home

Mosquito bites and fire ant, bee and wasp stings are common in Texas. Most can be cared for at home.

What to do

1. Wash the area with soap and water.
2. Bee: scrape the stinger out with the edge of a card.
3. Apply something cold wrapped in cloth for 10 minutes.
4. Fire ants: don't pop the small pus bumps; keep them clean.
5. Trim the baby's nails to prevent scratching.
6. For itching, ask the pediatrician before using creams.

What not to do

• Don't use insect repellent on babies under 2 months: use mosquito netting over the crib, stroller or carrier.
• Don't use oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD on children under 3 years.
• Don't put repellent on the child's hands, eyes, mouth or cuts.
• Don't use combined sunscreen-plus-repellent products.