The Bug Capital of the World: Protecting Yourself from Insect Bites
As the summer heat rises, so do the number of bugs buzzing around us. In Houston, it often feels like we live in the bug capital of the world, with mosquitoes, fire ants, bees, and wasps causing trouble for many residents. But how do you know when a bug bite requires a trip to the emergency room? And what can you do to prevent these pesky pests from making a meal out of you?
Dr. Salil Bhandari, an emergency medicine physician with UTHealth, has seen his fair share of bug-related emergencies. Whether it’s an allergic reaction, an infection from a bug bite, or a disease transmitted by insects like West Nile virus, the dangers of bug bites should not be underestimated.
Bhandari emphasizes that while most bug bites can be treated at home with over-the-counter remedies like hydrocortisone cream, severe reactions require immediate medical attention. Symptoms like widespread rashes, swelling of the lips or throat, difficulty breathing, or wheezing are red flags that should prompt a visit to the emergency room.
When it comes to preventing bug bites, Dr. Bhandari recommends following the three “D”s:
- Drain any standing water to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds
- Use insect repellent containing DEET
- Dress in light-colored, long-sleeved clothing to reduce exposure to bugs
By taking these simple precautions, you can reduce your risk of bug bites and avoid becoming another statistic in the bug capital of the world.