What should you know about mosquito cellulitis?

A simple bite reaction is often itchy and raised, while cellulitis tends to cause spreading redness, warmth, swelling, and tenderness. The infected area may enlarge over time rather than settling as the itch improves. Cellulitis can occur on any body area, including an arm, leg, or face. Athlete's foot, skin cracks, and conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes can make skin easier for bacteria to enter. A clinician may diagnose it by examining the skin; a bite mark does not prove that infection is present.

Wash the area gently with soap and water, avoid scratching, and keep broken skin covered with a clean dressing. Note the edge of redness so you can tell whether it is spreading. Do not squeeze the bite or apply harsh household products. If redness, warmth, pain, or swelling is increasing, arrange prompt medical assessment because bacterial cellulitis may need prescription treatment. Follow the prescribed course exactly if treatment is given.

Seek same-day medical advice for rapidly spreading redness, marked swelling, increasing pain, pus, or a fever. Get emergency help for confusion, faintness, severe weakness, trouble breathing, or skin changes that spread quickly, because a serious infection such as sepsis needs urgent attention. People with diabetes or reduced immunity should seek advice early when a bite becomes increasingly red or painful.

Ask whether the appearance fits an allergic bite reaction or cellulitis, whether the redness needs measuring, and what changes should trigger urgent review. You can also ask how to protect the broken skin and whether another condition is raising your infection risk.