Summer months' warm, humid weather creates an ideal environment for mosquitoes to thrive. Participating in outdoor activities without wearing repellent creates the risk of mosquito bites, which may be dangerous for children with severe allergies. Look for signs of mosquito bites on your child after all outdoor activities if allergies are a concern. Some mosquito-bite symptoms are relatively harmless; others may require medical attention.
Step 1
Examine the skin where the mosquito bite occurred. Redness, swelling and lumps are signs of an allergic reaction. These symptoms occur in most people and may not always be cause for concern. Swelling on other body parts -- especially on the face -- likely indicates a severe allergic reaction.
Step 2
Feel the mosquito bite and the surrounding area for hardness or a swollen, tender feeling. These characteristics are often found at the bite's base, but may spread out farther in stronger allergic reactions.
Step 3
Ask the child if he feels pain, itching or tenderness after exposure to mosquitoes. Any of these symptoms may indicate an allergic reaction to mosquito bites. If the child is too young to talk, press gently on all areas of exposed skin and look for reactions that may indicate discomfort or mild pain.
Step 4
Listen to the child's breathing. Deep, irregular breathing indicates a serious allergic reaction that may require immediate medical attention. In some cases, irregular breathing may also lead to dizziness or unconsciousness.
Step 5
Feel the child's forehead with the back of your hand to determine if it is hotter than normal. Alternatively, take his temperature with a thermometer. Seek medical attention if an immediate fever occurs after exposure to mosquitoes.
Step 6
Watch the child's body movements for muscle spasms, especially in the arms and legs. Muscle spasms -- a sign of a serious allergic reaction -- require immediate attention.
