A child was bitten by bedbugs, what should be done? - briefly
Clean the sleeping area by washing all bedding in hot water, vacuuming mattresses, and sealing the bed with a pest‑proof cover; treat the bites with an antihistamine or corticosteroid cream and watch for signs of infection, seeking medical care if redness expands, fever appears, or the child shows increased discomfort.
A child was bitten by bedbugs, what should be done? - in detail
When a child experiences bed‑bug bites, prompt action reduces discomfort and prevents secondary infection.
First, cleanse the affected skin with mild soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry, then apply a thin layer of an over‑the‑counter antiseptic or hydrocortisone cream to diminish inflammation. Avoid scratching; if the child cannot resist, keep nails trimmed and consider using mittens at night.
Monitor the lesions for signs of infection—redness spreading beyond the bite, warmth, pus, or fever. If any of these appear, seek medical evaluation immediately. A healthcare professional may prescribe oral antibiotics, stronger topical steroids, or antihistamines to control itching.
For symptomatic relief, use:
- Oral antihistamine (e.g., cetirizine) according to pediatric dosing.
- Cool compresses applied for 10‑15 minutes several times daily.
- Calamine lotion or a baking‑soda paste (baking soda mixed with water) applied briefly.
Simultaneously address the source of the infestation. Conduct a thorough inspection of the bedroom, focusing on seams of mattresses, box springs, headboards, and cracks in furniture. Remove and launder all bedding, clothing, and plush toys in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum carpets, floorboards, and upholstered surfaces, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister promptly.
If visual evidence of bed‑bugs persists, engage a licensed pest‑control service. Effective treatments combine:
- Professional heat‑treatment or steam‑cleaning of infested items.
- Application of approved insecticides to cracks, crevices, and baseboards.
- Installation of mattress and box‑spring encasements designed to trap insects.
Prevent future bites by:
- Keeping the child’s sleeping area free of clutter.
- Regularly inspecting travel luggage and second‑hand furniture.
- Using protective mattress covers and periodically washing bedding.
Document the timeline of bites and any interventions performed; this record assists healthcare providers and pest‑control specialists in evaluating treatment efficacy.