Bed Bug Bites on Children: What Parents Should Know

Waking up to itchy red marks on your child is worrying, especially if you are not sure what caused them. Bed bugs are one possibility. Their bites are rarely dangerous, but they can cause discomfort, sleepless nights and, if scratched, infection.

This guide is general information and not medical advice. If you are worried about your child's health, speak to a doctor.

The short answer

Bed bug bites on children usually appear as small, red, itchy bumps, often in lines or clusters, on skin exposed during sleep such as the face, neck, arms, hands, legs and feet. Reactions vary: some children show little, others develop larger welts or blisters. Bites are not known to spread disease to people, and they usually clear within one to two weeks. The key is to stop children from scratching, keep the skin clean, and get the infestation treated. See a doctor if there are signs of infection, a severe allergic reaction or you are unsure of the cause.

What bites look like

• Small red or pink bumps, sometimes with a darker centre.
• Lines or clusters of three or more, sometimes described as breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• Itching and sometimes burning.
• Possible swelling or blisters in sensitive children.
• Marks may appear hours or days after the bite.

Other things that look similar

1. Mosquito bites, which are usually scattered.
2. Flea bites, often around ankles and lower legs.
3. Scabies and other skin conditions.
4. Eczema and heat rash.

Because many things look alike, look for other signs at home: dark spots on the mattress, shed skins or live bugs.

Caring for your child

• Wash the area with mild soap and water.
• Use a cool compress to ease itching.
• Keep nails short and cover bites if scratching is a problem.
• Ask a doctor or pharmacist about suitable creams or relief for your child's age.
• Distract and comfort your child, and keep the room cool.

When to see a doctor

• Signs of infection: increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus or fever.
• Many bites, large welts or blisters.
• Signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or lips, breathing difficulty or widespread hives. Seek urgent care.
• Bites that do not improve after a couple of weeks.
• Any time you are unsure.

Stopping the bites

1. Inspect the child's bed and surroundings.
2. Wash and heat-dry bedding and soft toys.
3. Use a zippered mattress encasement.
4. Arrange professional treatment, and tell the provider about the child.
5. Avoid DIY insecticide sprays near children.

When to call a professional

Bites will keep coming until the infestation is treated. Call a pest control provider early, and a doctor for health concerns.

Frequently asked questions

Do bed bugs carry diseases?

They are not known to transmit diseases to people, but bites can be itchy and can become infected.

Can I use anti-itch cream on my child?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist for age-appropriate advice.

Why does my child react more than I do?

People react differently. Some show little or no reaction.

How long do bites last?

Typically a week or two, depending on the child.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on bed bug control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full bed bug treatment guide for Bangalore.