Apr 05, 2024

How to differentiate between rash from a mosquito bite and other skin rashes?

Siddhartha Jana

Mosquito bites are not uncommon. In most people, mosquito bites may not cause much harm but they may spread diseases such as malaria and dengue.

Source: Canva

In most people, the skin reaction to a mosquito bite will be mild. Whereas, in some others, the reaction involved around redness, swelling and pain at the site of the bite. This reaction appears within minutes of the bite, described Dr. Subodh Sirur, Consultant Dermatology, Masina Hospital, Mumbai.

Source: Canva

In children, the skin reaction to the bite tends to be more severe than in adults.

Source: Canva

How to differentiate? Skin lesions in viral infections would be more generalised than localised and would be generally accompanied by fever and malaria. Allergy to medication can also cause a skin rash.

Source: Canva

Allergy to certain chemicals can also cause a skin rash. An accurate histoy and clinical findings help in making a diagnosis. A skin rash due to a mosquito bite would respond in most cases to symptomatic treatment.

Source: Canva

However, if the rash persists or if it is accompanied by fever, body ache or other complaints it is advisable to consult your doctor for further management.

Source: Canva

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