Mosquito Bites on Babies: Home Remedies, Treatment, and Prevention

Introduction

Mosquito bites are very common in babies, and in most cases, they are harmless and heal on their own. However, it is natural for many parents to worry about the discomfort it may cause to their little ones, or worse, if it may lead to severe allergies or any infection that mosquito bites can spread¹.  

In this blog, we will explore different modalities to identify the signs and symptoms of mosquito bites in babies, how to reduce or prevent irritation, and how to treat mosquito bite marks on babies.  

Why Are Mosquito Bites More Noticeable on Babies?

Babies have very delicate, sensitive skin and a developing immature immune system. Hence, babies and young children show an increased risk of allergic reactions to mosquito bites which show up as redness and swelling^2,3. Studies⁴ have also found baby skin to be thinner and softer than adults.  

All these factors combined may cause small mosquito bites on babies to appear more noticeable compared to adults. 

How to Identify Mosquito Bite Marks on a Baby?

The typical signs and symptoms noticed in mosquito bites include^5,6,7: 

• Small, red, raised bumps which may be itchy 
• Mild swelling and redness around the mosquito bite 
• A tiny dot at the centre of the swelling 

It is also important to identify whether the marks are caused by mosquito bite or rash. The differences between mosquito bite and rashes include^6,7,8: 

Sometimes, a more severe allergic reaction to mosquito bite known as Skeeter syndrome may occur which may cause the development of blisters, fever, and large swelling around the mosquito bite. If your child is facing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult your doctor and get prompt medical care^1,5. 

Is a Mosquito Bite Dangerous for Babies?

Mosquito bites are usually harmless, and in babies, they generally cause red, itchy bumps due to an allergic reaction to the mosquito’s saliva. The most commonly noticed symptoms in babies include itchiness and discomfort, which can cause them to scratch the affected area excessively and make them irritable. However, excessive scratching should be avoided as it may cause painful bruising especially if the baby’s nails are not properly trimmed.  

While his local irritation generally settles on its own soon, parents should not be casual about mosquito bites, as some mosquito bites can carry more serious risks⁹. 

Certain mosquitoes can transmit dangerous diseases such as malaria, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis, dengue, Zika, and West Nile virus. In rare cases, these infections may lead to severe complications, including encephalitis, meningitis (inflammatory condition affecting the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord), or developmental problems like microcephaly^9,10.  

Rarely, babies may also develop an allergic reaction to a bite leading to the development of large swelling, fever and blisters around the bite. Since mosquitoes can spread such serious diseases, it is important to protect babies from bites and seek medical advice if your child develops fever, rashes, or other concerning symptoms after a bite^1,9. 

How to Treat Mosquito Bite Marks on Babies

If your baby has been bitten by a mosquito, you should^6,7: 

• Clean the mosquito bite area: The first step is to wash the mosquito bite and surrounding skin with mild soap and clean water. This helps to remove bacteria and dirt, lowering the risk of secondary infection. Gently dry the area with a soft towel. Avoid rubbing, as baby skin is delicate and easily irritated^2,3,6,7. 
• Apply a Cold Compress to Reduce Swelling: A cold compress like an ice pack may be beneficial to help reduce redness, swelling and irritation. This is especially helpful during the first 24 hours after the bite. 
• Application of Calamine Lotion: Calamine lotion helps reduce itchiness in babies. Its zinc oxide component may help to reduce local irritation, while evaporation after application creates a gentle cooling sensation that calms sensory nerve endings. The use of this lotion may also help in the formation of a thin protective barrier over inflamed skin, reducing further irritation. Hence, these mechanisms may help to decrease itching in babies and provide temporary relief¹¹. 
• Use of Antihistamines: Your doctor may suggest the use of antihistamines as they may help reduce the itchiness and swelling. Studies have shown medications containing loratadine to be beneficial in children. Never give antihistamines without consulting your paediatrician, as dosing depends on your baby’s age and weight⁶. 
• Watch for signs of infection and seek medical care: Most mosquito bites are harmless, but you should closely monitor the area. Contact your doctor if you notice increasing redness or warmth, pus or discharge, fever or unusual or spreading swelling⁵. 

Home Remedies for Mosquito Bites on Babies

Besides the measures mentioned above, there are some natural remedies that you can try for mosquito bites on babies. 

Home remedies commonly used include: 

1. Baking soda and water

Application of a mixture of baking soda and water can help with mosquito bites. Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate, is alkaline, which helps neutralize the pH of the bite area, reducing irritation and itchiness¹². You can make a paste by mixing one spoon of baking powder (sodium bicarbonate) with a small amount of water until it forms a smooth paste, apply this to the affected area (mosquito bite and surrounding skin), leave it for ten minutes and wash⁷.  

2. Oatmeal Paste

Studies¹³ have shown that avenanthramides, the primary component of oats, act as potent anti-inflammatory agents and may help to reduce itchiness, which supports the application of oatmeal on irritated skin. Moreover, oatmeal forms a gentle protective barrier over the bite, improves hydration, and provides antioxidant effects, which may help restore the skin barrier and promote faster recovery. 

3. Aloe vera gel

When applied to the affected area, aloe vera has a soothing effect, thereby reducing itchiness. Moreover, aloe vera has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin-healing effects¹⁴. Due to these properties, aloe vera gel may help reduce inflammation due to mosquito bite and promote healing.  

4. Coconut oil

Gently massaging coconut oil onto mosquito bite marks may help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness due to its natural anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties. Studies have shown that coconut oil can support skin barrier repair while calming inflammation¹⁵. Moreover, coconut oil can act as a natural mosquito repellent, reducing the incidence of mosquito bites when applied to the skin¹⁶. 

5. Breast milk

Breast milk is a simple, no cost, easily available natural remedy that may be tried for a variety of skin conditions in babies.  Breast milk is rich in immunoglobulins and may help reduce inflammation and itchiness when applied to the affected region in babies¹⁷. 

These simple home remedies for mosquito bites in babies can provide temporary relief, but it is important that parents always monitor the bite area for signs of infection or worsening symptoms.   

How to Prevent Mosquito Bites on Babies?

You can protect and reduce the risk of mosquito bites on babies by following these simple steps^18,19: 

• Use of baby-safe insect repellent (EPA registered insect repellent): Choose repellents that are approved by the Environmental Protection Agency.  
• Dress your child in full-sleeved, loose-fitting clothes: Covering more skin reduces the chance of bites. Long sleeves, full pants, and socks act as an extra physical barrier against mosquito bites. 
• Use mosquito nets over cribs and strollers: Mosquito nets are a simple, chemical-free way to protect sleeping babies and those in strollers. Parents should ensure that the net is tucked securely with no gaps. 
• Keep doors and windows screened: Install mesh screens on doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. Check regularly for tears or gaps in the screens and repair them promptly. 
• Remove stagnant water around your home: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Even small amounts of stagnant water can become breeding sites for mosquitoes. 
• Use fans or air circulation to avoid mosquitoes: This is an effective, non-chemical method to repel mosquitos due to the high air current which they can’t fly in. 
• Avoid taking babies outdoors during peak mosquito hours: Mosquito activity is usually highest in early mornings and evenings. Try to schedule walks or outdoor play during mid-day when possible or ensure extra protective measures if you go outside during peak mosquito hours.  
• Keep rooms clean and well-ventilated: Regular cleaning and good ventilation may help to maintain a healthier environment for your baby and reduce the risk of mosquito bites. 

By following these simple tips, you can reduce the risk of mosquito bites. 

Also Read: Baby Diaper Rash: Causes, Types, Treatment & Home Remedies  

When to Consult a Doctor?

You should consider taking your baby to the doctor if symptoms from a mosquito bite persist or do not improve over time. Moreover, if your child develops additional symptoms such as a rash, fever or chills, headache, muscle or joint pain, or unusual tiredness, it is important to seek immediate medical treatment⁵. 

If your child is facing any of these signs or symptoms, it may suggest a mosquito-borne illness. Consulting your doctor early can help ensure an accurate diagnosis, timely treatment, and reduce the risk of complications.⁵ 

Conclusion

Mosquito bites in babies are common and usually harmless, often causing temporary redness, swelling, and itching due to their sensitive skin. While most bites heal on their own with simple care, it’s important for parents to recognise typical mosquito bite marks, differentiate them from rashes, and watch for any warning signs of infection or illness. Gentle treatments, appropriate home remedies, and doctor-recommended medications may help relieve discomfort, while preventive measures such as protective clothing, mosquito nets, and baby-safe repellents can significantly reduce the risk of future bites. It is important to seek medical advice promptly if your baby shows signs and symptoms such as fever, rashes, unusual tiredness or other concerning signs.  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

1. MedlinePlus. Mosquito Bites [Internet]. Medlineplus.gov. National Library of Medicine; 2019. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/mosquitobites.html 
2. Bikhet M, Morsi M, Hara H, Rhodes LA, Carlo WF, Cleveland D, et al. The immune system in infants: Relevance to xenotransplantation. Pediatric Transplantation [Internet]. 2020 Nov 1;24(7):e13795. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32845539/ 
3. Peng Z, Ki Ho M, Li C, Simons FER. Evidence for natural desensitization to mosquito salivary allergens: mosquito saliva specific IgE and IgG levels in children. Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology [Internet]. 2004 Dec [cited 2022 Aug 22];93(6):553–6. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15609764/ 
4. Kong F, Galzote C, Duan Y. Change in skin properties over the first 10 years of life: a cross-sectional study. Archives of Dermatological Research [Internet]. 2017 Jul 19;309(8):653–8. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5606948/ 
5. Healthdirect Australia. Mosquito bites [Internet]. Healthdirect.gov.au. 2025. Available from: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mosquito-bites 
6. Seda J, Horrall S. Mosquito Bites [Internet]. PubMed. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2021. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539915/ 
7. CDC. About Mosquito Bites [Internet]. 2024. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/about/about-mosquito-bites.html 
8. MedlinePlus. Rashes [Internet]. medlineplus.gov. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/rashes.html 
9. US EPA. General Information about Mosquitoes | US EPA [Internet]. 2013. Available from: https://www.epa.gov/mosquitocontrol/general-information-about-mosquitoes 
10. World Health Organization. Vector-borne Diseases [Internet]. Who.int. 2024. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/vector-borne-diseases 
11. Meng YC, Fan JC, Bian WN. Effectiveness of calamine lotion as an adjunctive therapy to mometasone furoate ointment in the treatment of infant eczema: A retrospective study. Medicine [Internet]. 2022 Sep 2;101(35):e30237. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9439764/ 
12. Senewiratne NL, Woodall A, Can AS. Sodium Bicarbonate [Internet]. PubMed. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559139/ 
13. Sur R, Nigam A, Grote D, Liebel F, Southall MD. Avenanthramides, polyphenols from oats, exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-itch activity. Archives of Dermatological Research [Internet]. 2008 May 7;300(10):569–74. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18461339/ 
14. Davood Hekmatpou, PhD, Mehrabi F, Kobra Rahzani, PhD, Atefeh Aminiyan, PhD. The Effect of Aloe Vera Clinical Trials on Prevention and Healing of Skin Wound: A Systematic Review. Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences [Internet]. 2019;44(1):1. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6330525/ 
15. Varma SR, Sivaprakasam TO, Arumugam I, et al. In vitro anti-inflammatory and skin protective properties of Virgin coconut oil. J Tradit Complement Med. 2018;9(1):5-14. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6335493/  
16. Hara S, Pillay MT, Sunahara T, et al. Potential of coconut oil as a mosquito repellent. Trop Med Health. 2025;53(1):57. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40270040/  
17. Witkowska-Zimny M, Kamińska-El-Hassan E, Wróbel E. Milk Therapy: Unexpected Uses for Human Breast Milk. Nutrients [Internet]. 2019 Apr 26;11(5):944. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6567207/ 
18. CDC. Preventing Mosquito Bites [Internet]. 2024. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/prevention/index.html 
19. Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Protect Children from Mosquito Bites [Internet]. Mass.gov. Available from: https://www.mass.gov/doc/protect-children-from-mosquito-bites/download 
20. Quitadamo PA, Comegna L, Cristalli P. Anti-Infective, Anti-Inflammatory, and Immunomodulatory Properties of Breast Milk Factors for the Protection of Infants in the Pandemic From COVID-19. Frontiers in Public Health [Internet]. 2021 Mar 2;8. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7960784/ 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.