Identify and Treat Common Bug Bites in New Mexico - Mosquitos, Spiders, Scorpions

Common Bug Bites in New Mexico

Here are some of the most common biting and stinging insects found in New Mexico:

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are ubiquitous throughout New Mexico during the warmer months. Over 40 different species can be found in the state. Mosquito bites often appear as itchy, red bumps on the skin. While mostly just a nuisance, mosquitoes can transmit diseases like West Nile virus, Zika virus, and malaria.

Yellowjackets, Hornets, & Wasps

New Mexico is home to dozens of species of stinging insects like yellowjackets, hornets, and paper wasps. They build papery nests, often underground or in trees and buildings. Their stings are quite painful and repeated stings can cause severe allergic reactions in some people.

Bees

Bees are common throughout New Mexico. Africanized honeybees, also known as "killer bees", can be very aggressive when disturbed. Bee stings are painful. People with bee sting allergies can experience life-threatening anaphylactic reactions.

Fire Ants

Red imported fire ants can be found in parts of southern and central New Mexico. They have a painful, burning sting that develops into an itchy bump. Some people can have severe allergic reactions.

Black Widow Spiders

Black widow spiders can be identified by the red hourglass shape on their undersides. They like to hide in woodpiles, rubble piles, and outdoor toilets. Black widow bites can cause muscle aches, nausea, and sweating.

Brown Recluse Spiders

Brown recluse spiders are most common in southwestern New Mexico. Their bites can cause pain, itching, and a wound that takes months to heal. Rarely, their venom can cause a severe reaction throughout the body.

Scorpions

Over 20 species of scorpions call New Mexico home. They live in rocky areas, woodpiles, and crawlspaces. Scorpion stings are very painful but typically only cause short-term symptoms like numbness and tingling.

Fleas & Ticks

Fleas and ticks thrive in New Mexico's warm climate. They can transmit diseases like plague and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Pets and livestock often bring fleas and ticks indoors.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are sneaky pests that feed on human blood at night. They leave small, itchy bite marks, usually in a line or cluster. Bed bug infestations are common in hotels, apartments, and homes in New Mexico.

Symptoms of Bug Bites

The symptoms caused by insect bites and stings can vary greatly depending on the type of bug and your reaction:

• Red bump, welt, or rash
• Itching and swelling
• Burning or stinging pain
• Blisters or hives
• Bruised, blue discoloration
• Dizziness, sweating, nausea
• Difficulty breathing
• Muscle cramps and joint pain
• Fever, headache, fatigue

The bite area may remain painful, itchy, and inflamed for several days. Symptoms sometimes appear within minutes or can take over 12 hours to show up.

Treating Mild Reactions to Bug Bites

For mild or moderate reactions to insect bites and stings, these self-care measures can help provide relief:

Clean the Bite Area

Wash the bite with soap and water to remove any remaining venom or allergens on the skin's surface. Apply an antiseptic cream. This helps prevent infection.

Apply a Cold Compress

Place an ice pack or cold compress over the bite to reduce swelling, redness, and itchiness. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.

Elevate the Area

If the bite is on an arm or leg, keep it elevated above heart level to minimize swelling.

Take Antihistamines

Over-the-counter antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can relieve itching and allergic reactions. Follow dosage instructions.

Use Topical Creams & Gels

Products containing pramoxine, lidocaine, or hydrocortisone can also soothe skin reactions and itching. Calamine lotion helps dry out blisters and weeping bites.

Avoid Scratching

As difficult as it may be, avoid scratching bug bites as this can damage the skin and cause infections. Distract yourself and apply creams or cold compresses instead.

When to Seek Medical Care

In some situations, bug bites and stings require prompt medical treatment. Seek emergency care if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips/tongue
• Signs of a severe allergic reaction like hives, dizziness, vomiting
• Extreme redness and swelling that continues to worsen
• Flu-like symptoms such as high fever, muscle/joint pain, swollen lymph nodes
• Pus, red streaking, or increased warmth around the bite
• Nausea, cramping, or headaches after a tick bite (could indicate Lyme disease)
• Weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body after an insect sting (sign of neurotoxicity)
• Stinging, burning pain that doesn't improve after a few hours

People at higher risk for severe reactions, such as young children and the elderly, should seek medical care promptly if they experience any concerning symptoms.

Preventing Bug Bites in New Mexico

You can take these proactive measures to avoid bug bites when spending time outdoors:

Use Insect Repellent

Spray exposed skin with an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus before going outside.

Wear Protective Clothing

Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants help keep bugs away from your skin. Tuck pants into socks when hiking.

Be Extra Cautious at Dawn and Dusk

Mosquitoes and some other biting insects are most active in the early morning and evening. Limit outdoor time during those high-risk hours.

Control Standing Water

Drain or treat standing water sources around your home to avoid mosquito breeding grounds. This includes flowerpots, pet dishes, and rain gutters.

Avoid Sweet Smells

Skip the perfume, sugary lotion, and fragrant shampoo if you'll be outside. Sweet scents attract stinging insects.

Check for Ticks

Carefully check your whole body for ticks after being in grassy or wooded areas. Look in the scalp, behind ears, and in arm pits and groin.

Watch Where You Step & Reach

Be cautious around areas where

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.