Mosquito bite reactions sending Edmonton kids to emergency rooms this summer

Edmonton emergency rooms are treating a surge of severe mosquito bite reactions known as 'skeeter syndrome' as Alberta's booming mosquito populations continue this summer.

Dr. Andrew Dixon, an emergency room physician in Edmonton, has treated five or six cases in the last two to three days alone. The condition causes significant swelling in response to mosquito bites — sometimes so severe that swelling around the eye can shut the eyelid, causing alarm among parents who bring their children in for emergency care.

"We've seen a lot of kids come in with significant swelling. It usually worries people the most when it's in and around the eye. You get a big swollen thing around the eye and the eye swells shut. Obviously it worries people but it is quite benign," Dixon said.

Skeeter syndrome occurs when the body has a much stronger inflammatory reaction to mosquito saliva than normal. According to Dr. Mariam Hanna, a pediatric allergist and clinical immunologist at McMaster University, the condition happens more often in young children who haven't been bitten frequently. "It tends to get better as they get older, as they get more mosquito bites and they become more tolerant to it. Their immune system recognizes it more and more," Hanna said.

Large areas of skin can become red, swollen, and hot. In some cases, blisters fill with fluid. These reactions typically peak around pre-school age and often fade by the time children start school. A low fever can accompany the swelling in some cases.

Skeeter syndrome is localized and does not lead to anaphylaxis, so it is not life-threatening. Hanna recommends seeking medical care if fever develops or if you're worried about your child's reaction. Edmonton's unprecedented mosquito season — the heaviest in decades following months of heavy rain — is making these cases more common than usual.