In this article, Dr. Martin, a pediatrician at Cook Children’s explains how to determine if an insect bite is infected or is instead something known as ‘Skeeter Syndrome’ or a large local reaction. She also reviews how best to handle tick bites. Please read more here: https://www.checkupnewsroom.com/skeeter-syndrome-is-my-kids-bug-bite-infected/
Her post is from 2020 and references offering Benadryl (a first generation antihistamine) for localized swelling and itching. We now instead recommend a 2nd generation antihistamine (such as Zyrtec, Allerga, or Claritin). These medications are faster acting, longer lasting, and have fewer side effects than Benadryl.
