Over the past two years Malta has been witnessing severe reactions to mosquito bites – especially in children, adolescents and young adults – after the discovery of the Asian tiger mosquito. 

The reactions are largely due to a local chemical cellulitis, rather than infection. The clinical manifestations are mainly characterised by a zone of redness around the bite, itching, and moderate to extensive swelling of the part.  It is recommended that a cold compress is initially applied to the affected area, followed by a topical antiseptic.

It is quite rare for mosquito bites to become infected and for this reason, both topical and/or oral antibiotics should not be used unless there are obvious signs of infection following consultation with a doctor. However if the bitten individual notices the development of pain and an extension of the redness beyond the bite or in severe cases, when multiple bites occur with gross swelling and severe itching of the part,  a doctor should be consulted.

Measures to avoid mosquito bites and control mosquitoes

• This particular mosquito bites mainly during the daylight hours; where possible minimise areas of exposed skin during outdoor activities

• Insect repellants like Permethrin can be applied to clothing.

• Aerosol insecticides, vaporising mats and mosquito coils can help to clear rooms of mosquitoes.

• Optimum protection can be obtained by using repellents on exposed skin. (Products containing DEET.)

• Have secure screens on windows and doors.

• Get rid of mosquito sources in your yard pr garden by emptying empty standing water from flower pots, buckets and barrels. Change water in pet dishes every three days and replace water in bird containers every week.

• Keep children’s wading pools empty and on their sides when not in use.

• Do not leave fish ponds without fish. Keep suitable fish such as goldfish, guppies, and jelly fish in bore holes and fish ponds.

• Empty swimming pools when these aren’t being used, especially if the water is not chlorinated.

• Locate puddles that last more than three days, inlets to sewers and drainage systems holding stagnant water and drain them.

• Roof gutters should be kept clean of fallen leaves and other debris so that water does not collect in them.

• Flower pots, standing flower vases, knotholes and other crevices that can collect water should be filled with sand or fine gravel to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs in them.

• Neighbourhood residents ought to work together to eliminate breeding sites like abandoned cars, old machinery and other junk in vacant areas.  Litter can also hold rainwater and should be removed.

• Any standing water in pools, catchment basins, etc, that cannot be drained or dumped can be periodically treated with properly labelled insecticides.

• Businesses should cover tyres, store them indoors or treat them with an insecticide for control of mosquito larvae.