UPMC releases ways to reduce exposure to bug bites
PITTSBURGH – Bug bites and insect stings can be a real pain. With summer approaching, drug stores shelves are now stocked with various ointments and sprays that protect against the regular cast of summer insects – bees, ticks and mosquitoes. But are these products enough? “During the summer season, bites and stings account for several cases we see in the UPMC Presbyterian Emergency Department,” said Donald M. Yealy, M.D., professor and vice-chairman of the department of emergency medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. “For the average person, bites and stings are usually innocuous, but for those with allergies, or when the insect transmits illness, serious health problems may develop if left untreated.”
Of recent concern is the increasing number of West Nile virus cases expected to occur this summer in the United States. Last year, Pennsylvania reported 62 human cases, with 22 of those in Allegheny County. West Nile virus occurs when mosquitoes feed off a bird carrying the virus. The mosquito can then pass the virus along to people, horses, birds and other animals.
While some people become infected once bitten, few become seriously ill. In fact, less than 1 percent of people infected with West Nile die from the virus.
Symptoms of West Nile virus include fever, headaches, rash and muscle fatigue. In extreme cases, convulsions, neurologic injury, brain swelling, coma and death can occur. People who are more than 50 years of age are at greater risk of developing complications from the virus. There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus. People who are hospitalized with the virus receive supportive treatment, often involving intravenous fluids and respiratory support.
Another bug-borne disease that continues to receive much attention is Lyme disease, a bacterial disease caused by blacklegged ticks, also known as deer ticks. Lyme disease occurs when younger ticks feed off an infected rodent or other animal. The disease is then spread when the infected tick feeds on humans.
Symptoms of Lyme disease include a bulls-eye rash at the site of the bite, accompanied by fever, headache and muscle and joint pain. While most people’s symptoms are limited to minor aches and pains, some may become seriously ill, as the bacteria spreads throughout the body and infects vital organs. If untreated, Lyme disease can cause permanent neurologic injury, heart problems and arthritis. Lyme disease is generally treated with antibiotics.
To reduce the possibility of West Nile virus and Lyme disease, as well as the typical summer mosquito bites and bee stings, UPMC offers the following preventative measures:
– If you are planning to be outside for prolonged periods, especially in the wilderness, wear long-sleeved shirts tucked into pants and long pants tucked into socks.
– Always wear enclosed shoes.
– Avoid going out during peak hours (dusk and dawn) when insects are out.
– Avoid sitting directly on the ground where bugs and insects are known to gather and stay on cleared, well-worn trails.
– Avoid scented soaps, perfumes, hair sprays or sunscreens, which may attract bugs.
– For those allergic to bee stings or other insect bites, always carry an emergency first-aid kit and epinephrine injector.
– Wear a good dose of insect repellent and read the instruction label carefully.
– Install or repair door and window screens so bugs cannot get indoors
– Remove items where stagnant water can collect to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs and regularly replace water in bird baths, flower pots and watering cans.
If bitten or stung, here are some tips for treatment:
– To remove a visible stinger from the skin, gently scrape it off horizontally with a credit card or fingernail. Stings may also be removed with a pair of tweezers. Do not try to squeeze the stinger out – this can make the reaction worse.
– To relieve pain and swelling, apply a cool compress or ice to the affected area.
– To relieve itchiness, apply a generous amount of calamine lotion to the affected area. Over the counter antihistamines such as Benadryl may also help. Carefully read the instructions label to determine the right dosage for children and the elderly.
– Seek immediate medical attention if one or more of the following symptoms develop: sudden difficulty in breathing; sudden weakness, collapse or unconsciousness; hives or itching all over the body; extreme swelling near the eyes, lips, tongue or throat that make seeing, eating or breathing difficult.
“While it is impossible to prevent all bites and stings, knowing the signs and symptoms of an allergic or serious reaction can mean the difference between life and death,” Dr. Yealy said.
More information on West Nile virus, Lyme disease and other bug-borne diseases is available at www.cdc.gov.