How to Get Rid of Rat Mite's Bites
Tropical rat mites (Ornithonyssus bacoti) are not exclusive to the hot climates nor do they feed just on rats. If the host rats die, the mites will look for other sources of heat such as stoves. They hide during the day in the crevices of a house, coming out at night to feed. Tropical rat mites can survive up to ten days between feedings. Their bite causes a rash and painful, tiny, itchy fluid filled blisters. Tropical rat mites are not known to transmit any secondary diseases through their bites.
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Things You'll Need
- Cotton balls
- OTC anti-itch lotion such as Calamine Lotion
- OTC oral antihistamine pills such as Benadryl
Instructions
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1
Apply lotion to the cotton ball.
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2
Using the cotton ball, gently dab lotion on the affected areas of the skin.
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3
Reapply lotion to the affected areas as needed until the blisters scab over and the itching stops.
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4
Take an OTC oral antihistamine according to the manufacturer's directions. Retake antihistamine as needed until the blisters scab over and the itching lessens.
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5
Seek medical attention if itching lasts more than a week or the bites become infected.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid scratching the affected areas.
While rare due to tropical rat mite bites, seek immediate medical attention if there are any signs of allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, difficultly swallowing or feeling as if your throat is closing. Antihistamines may cause drowsiness.
