THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2026 Page 19 More Than an Itch: Treating and Preventing Summer Insect Bites and Health Risks Note: The following is based on info from Dr. Ana Stankovic, chief medical offi cer, UnitedHealthcare of New England. B etween backyard barbecues, beach vacations and hiking trails, warmer weather encourages us to spend more time outdoors. But alongside all the summer fun in the sun comes the often-overlooked health risk of insect bites and stings. Many people consider insect bites to be nothing more than an itchy inconvenience. A mosquito bite, a bee sting, or a tick found after a hike may seem like an inevitable part of enjoying nature. However, some bites and stings can lead to serious health concerns, including severe allergic reactions and diseases. West Nile is one of the most common mosquito-borne diseases in the continental United States, and Lyme disease is one of many illnesses caused by a pathogen ticks may carry. The challenge is that it’s often diffi cult to tell the diff erence between a harmless insect and one carrying disease, and many tickborne diseases share signs and symptoms. That’s why prevention and awareness are so important. Nearly one in 10 Americans experiences a tick bite each year, yet nearly two-thirds of adults report that they rarely or never check themselves BHRC | FROM Page 18 the policy and get the claim paid,” said sponsor Sen. Joan Lovely (D-Salem). “With the House advancing this bill, both branches have now said plainly that a clause taking that choice away does not belong in a Massachusetts insurance policy … My hope is that we fi nish the work and get this to the governor before the session closes.” “These adjusters provide an invaluable resource to consumers by walking them through every step of filing an insurance claim and using their professional experience to negotiate directly with the insurance companies,” said cofor ticks after spending time outdoors. Knowing how to reduce insect bites, identify symptoms and understand when to selfcare vs. seek medical attention can create an enjoyable, pest-free summer. Spot the Signs Most insect bites cause mild reactions, such as itching, redness, warmth or minor swelling, and these symptoms can typically be managed with basic first aid. Washing the affected area, applying an ice pack and using over-thecounter anti-itch creams or antihistamines may help relieve discomfort. However, certain symptoms should never be ignored. Diffi - culty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the lips or throat, nausea, vomiting, cramping or severe headaches may indicate a serious allergic reaction and require immediate medical attention. Importantly, half of all fatal reactions to insect stings occur in people with no previous history of severe allergies, underscoring the importance of recognizing warning signs quickly. Any tick bites that lead to fever and chills, aches and pains, fatigue, or rashes should be addressed by a healthcare provider. Tickborne pathogens can cause fever and rashes that can vary or be absent, along with diff erent associatsponsor Rep. Brad Jones (RNorth Reading). “[The bill] will ensure that these important protections remain in place for Massachusetts residents.” MAKE ASPARAGUS THE OFFICIAL STATE VEGETABLE (H 5088) — The House, on a voice vote without a roll call, gave initial approval to a bill, requested by some third-grade students at Hadley Elementary School, to make asparagus the offi cial state vegetable. Other areas in the nation are also working to designate their state as the asparagus capital of the world. “Asparagus is woven into the history of the Pioneer Valley, BHRC | SEE Page 21 ed symptoms depending on the specifi c pathogen. Before the Bite Prevention remains the best defense against bug-related illnesses. Wearing long sleeves and pants when possible, using EPA-registered insect repellents and taking precautions around your home can significantly reduce exposure. For ticks, a thorough body and scalp check after spending time outdoors is essential, particularly because ticks can live in any grassy, brushy or wooded area. This is especially important in Massachusetts, which has a high incidence of reported Lyme disease cases. Mosquito prevention matters just as much. Repairing damaged window and door screens and eliminating standing water around your home — including bird baths, fl owerpots and unused containers — can help reduce mosquito populations and lower the risk of mosquitoborne diseases. If camping and sleeping in the great outdoors, use bed nets pretreated with pyrethroid insecticide to protect against mosquitos. Paying attention to CDC Travel Health Notices and any travel warnings and recommendations is the primary way to know what insect risks exist in your area. For the stinging variety of insects, such as honeybees, yellow jackets and whitefaced paper wasps, a few precautions can help avoid painful stingers and anaphylactic reactions. These insects are attracted to bright colors, strongly scented perfumes and accessible food and drinks, so being mindful of clothing and covering your picnic basket can keep bees away. Additionally, stepping on stinging insects while walking barefoot or in flipfl ops should be avoided for those worried about allergic reactions. Summer should be a season of fun, exploration and meaningful time spent outside. By treating insect bites and stings as more than a seasonal nuisance and taking a few simple preventive steps, we can better protect ourselves and our families and enjoy the outdoors more safely. The World’s First Hearing Aids With Touchscreen Controls. No tiny buttons. No apps. No prescriptions. Call 844-497-3476 to get your 45-day risk free trial. Revolutionary technology with touchscreen control. 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