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Symptom Checker

Mosquito Bites in Children

A mosquito bite is a small skin reaction that develops after a mosquito pierces the skin to feed. Bites usually cause an itchy red bump and can sometimes cause a larger area of swelling.

The reaction comes from proteins in mosquito saliva. Scratching can further irritate the skin or introduce bacteria and lead to infection.

Call a nurse All symptoms

AAP Guide to Mosquito Bites in Children

The AAP guide below explains normal reactions, itch relief and when to call us.

AAP Symptom CheckerMosquito bites

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Redness, warmth or pain keeps increasing.
  • Pus, red streaks or fever develops.
  • Swelling near an eye becomes severe.
  • The bite is not improving or you are unsure whether it is infected.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child has trouble breathing.
  • Your child develops swelling of the tongue, throat or face.
  • Your child collapses or has another sign of a severe allergic reaction.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on bites and stings

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms