During the summer, people spend more time enjoying outdoor walks, picnics, and swimming. Summer months are also ideal for insects, increasing the risk of bug bites and stings among humans. Though these bites can sting, itch, cause discomfort, and trigger allergic reactions, most of them are harmless.
The most common bites are caused by spiders, ticks, bees, and wasps. Knowing the differences in the appearances of bug bites can help treat the symptoms better. This guide will discuss summer bug bites and the correct way to deal with them.
Mosquitoes
Some of the mosquitoes can not only bite you but also make you sick. The native Culex mosquito mainly bites at night, dawn, and dusk. If they bite an infected bird before biting you, they can transmit West Nile Virus. Moreover, the invasive Aedes mosquito can transmit dengue and chikungunya if they bite an infected person. They live and breed near humans, in yards, and inside homes.
Ticks
These tiny, eight-legged parasites crawl on tall grass, leaves, and other vegetation. They have hooked front legs that can be extended to latch onto passing people and animals. Tick-related diseases such as tularemia, Lyme disease, and rabbit fever are common in the summer months.
To protect yourself against ticks, always apply insect repellant when going outdoors. Stay on trails and away from bushes when hiking. Small red itchy splotches on your skin indicate tick bites.
Spiders
Though most spiders are harmless, there may be poisonous brown widows and black widows lurking around in your backyard, under your furniture, and on outdoor toys. To prevent being bitten by a spider, always wear shoes outdoors and don’t put your hands into holes and woodpiles. Shake out shoes, clothing, and towels before using them, and seek medical attention if you’re bitten. A spider bite looks like a painful, itchy, red, and inflamed bump on your skin and may even go unnoticed.
Ants
During the summer months, you can find many ants around your house looking for food and feeding on leftover pizza crumbs and liquid spills. Southern fire ants, red imported fire ants, and red-colored harvester ants pack painful stings and bites. Place bait traps in several corners and caulk up windows and door openings to prevent them from entering your home.
To deal with a bug infestation in your home this summer, contact professional exterminators at Kal Pest Solutions. We specialize in ant control, bug extermination, spider control, termite control, and more. Visit our website to book an appointment.
