Bug bites create tiny openings in your skin that can let in dangerous bacteria
We all know that bug bites can be irritating. And you probably know that scratching at those bites isn’t a good idea.
But do you know why? It’s because bug bites can get infected. And itching only makes infection more likely. And when you get an infection from a bug bite, it can be bad news.
Dermatologist Melissa Piliang, MD, explains how bug bites can put you at risk for cellulitis and what you can do about it.
How can bug bites get infected?
Bug bites create teeny holes in your skin that can allow bacteria to fall in. If you scratch the bite, that opens up your skin more, creating even bigger opportunities for germs to get in and set up shop.
“If you pick at or scratch an itchy bug bite, you provide an opening for bacteria to enter the skin and tissue underneath,” Dr. Piliang explains. “The bacteria may come from under your fingernails or another source.”
Among those other sources? Prepare yourself because things are about to get a little … gross.
Remember that kid’s book Everyone Poops? Bugs are no exception. When they land on you and go in for a bite, they can poop, too. And that tiny puncture wound is still big enough for the poo to just drop right in … or get smeared in when you go to scratch or rub.
Bug bites and cellulitis
Bacteria like Streptococcus (strep) or Staphylococcus aureus (staph) can enter your skin after a bug bite. Once inside, they start laying the groundwork for the skin infection cellulitis, which can make you sick.
Symptoms of cellulitis from an infected bug bite include:
- Flu-like symptoms, like fever, chills, nausea and swollen lymph nodes
- Skin changes in the bite zone, like redness, warmth, swelling and tenderness
- Infection clues, like red streaks, blisters, yellow or pus-like drainage
Just about any bug bite can potentially become infected, including bites from:
- Bedbugs
- Fleas
- Flies and horseflies
- Mosquitos
- Spiders
- Ticks
It’s worth noting that bug bites aren’t the only way to get cellulitis. Any open wound or scratch can allow bacteria in and lead to cellulitis. It can also happen if your skin isn’t kept clean.
Treating an infected bug bite
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that requires medical attention and, likely, a round of antibiotics. Left untreated, cellulitis can spread and become more severe, so it’s important not to let it fester. In rare cases, it can lead to infections in your blood (sepsis), bones (osteomyelitis) and more.
If you think you have an infected bug bite, Dr. Piliang suggests monitoring it for signs it’s spreading. “You can use a washable marker to draw a border around the bite to track its size. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if redness, swelling or blisters expand outside the border.”
Also contact a provider if you experience symptoms of cellulitis mentioned above.
What can be done for an infected bug bite?
- Medication. Your provider will likely prescribe a seven- to 14-day course of antibiotics. You may feel your symptoms get worse for a few days as the bacteria die off, but it’s important to finish the full prescription as directed.
- Wound care. To prevent further infection, your provider may recommend covering the wound and cleaning it regularly.
- Pain relief. Elevate the area and use cold compresses to ease swelling. Rest also helps recovery.
How to prevent cellulitis from a bug bite
Remember, bugs themselves don’t transmit cellulitis. So, you can take steps to reduce your risk for infection.
- Don’t scratch. It’s tempting to seek momentary relief by scratching annoying, itchy bug bites. But you can break open the skin and expose your body to bacteria that cause cellulitis. An anti-itch cream or antihistamines can help calm the urge to scratch.
- Keep it clean. Wash a bug bite with soap and water to remove any bacteria and bug poo from the area. Apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to the bite area if the skin is broken, and cover the bite with a bandage to keep germs out.
- Reduce your exposure to bites. Prevention is the best medicine. Make yourself less appealing to bugs looking for a snack by using insect repellants with DEET, as well as wearing long sleeves and pants.
A bug bite can seem like nothing more than a minor annoyance. And often, that’s all it is.
But if you have a bite that becomes red, swollen or painful, don’t ignore it. An infected bite can lead to cellulitis, a serious condition that needs medical treatment. If you’re concerned, contact a healthcare provider — and try not to scratch.
