Tiny Mosquito
Vicks VapoRub to Treat Mosquito Bites
Did you know that Vicks VapoRub can be used for more than just helping clear up congestion? Aside from its use for colds, the ointment is effective at alleviating discomfort and itchiness from insect bites, particularly those from mosquitoes. Moreover, the product’s strong scent is known to keep mosquitoes away. So, it works as both a preventative measure and an effective treatment for mosquito bites.
The active ingredients in Vicks ointment include camphor, eucalyptol, and the common menthol, which has been used for centuries in the treatment of skin itchiness such as the kind caused by minor rashes and insect bites.
Application
To apply Vicks VapoRub to a mosquito or other itchy insect bite, wash your hands thoroughly, then clean and dry the area around the bite as well. With the tip of your finger, a Q-Tip, or cotton ball, dab a small amount of the ointment on the irritating spot. Gently rub the ointment into the skin until it is completely absorbed. You should begin to feel some relief instantaneously. If the bite begins to bother you again after the initial application, you can reapply the ointment as often as needed.
Precautions
As with any other medication, Vicks VapoRub should be used as directed on the label, and close attention should be paid to any listed warnings. Since the ointment is a topical one, it must be used externally (on the skin only), and never ingested.
Since the powerful odor of Vicks can often clear up sinuses, some people apply the ointment underneath their stuffy noses or those of their children, which can produce severe allergic reactions in some individuals. It can also cause painful irritation and damage to the cornea if it comes in contact with the eyes. The ointment should never be used on the face. If you get a mosquito bite on your face, choose one of the many other effective remedies available on the market.
Note that Vicks VapoRub has not been approved for children under two and can cause fatal poisoning if it is ingested or enters the blood stream in large amounts. In such a case, contact your local poison control center immediately.
The medicated ointment is generally considered safe to use when pregnant or breastfeeding, but just to be on the safe side, pregnant or nursing women should contact their health care providers for advice regarding the use of Vicks.
The only common side effect associated with typical use of Vicks ointment is skin irritation or reddening of the area where it has been applied. If this occurs, you should discontinue use of the product and choose another effective mosquito bite remedy.
Vicks VapoRub has been recommended (medically and otherwise) for a variety of different conditions such as cold prevention when applied to the feet, treatment of toenail fungus, amongst other ailments. Due to its practicality, it is a good idea to keep some on hand in your medicine cabinet. The inexpensive generic brands usually contain the same active ingredients and work just as well.
Home - Mosquitoes - Bites - Control - Diseases - Resources - Site Map