🐝 End-of-Summer Insect Safety in Japan: How to Protect Your Kids from Bug Bites

Even though summer is almost over, insects are still very active in Japan. From late August through September (and sometimes even into October), children can easily get bitten when playing outdoors.

This guide explains the most common insects in Japan, how to prevent bites, what to do if your child is bitten, and recommended insect repellent products you can buy in Japan.

1. Common Insects in Late Summer

🦟 Mosquitoes (ka)

• Found around ponds, puddles, and other places with water
• Most active in the evening
• Cause itchy, red bumps

🐝 Bees & Wasps (hachi)

• Yellow and black stripes
• Stings can cause severe pain, swelling, and allergic reactions
• Found near flowers, trees, and sweet food

🕷️ Watch Out for Ticks (Mites / Ticks) in Japan

In addition to mosquitoes and bees, ticks (マダニ) are also a serious risk in Japan, especially from spring to autumn.

Tick bites can sometimes cause serious illnesses such as SFTS (Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome).

Ticks live in grassy areas, mountains, and parks. They bite and stay attached to the skin.

How to Prevent Tick Bites in Fukuoka (and Beyond)

If you find a tick on your skin, do not remove it with your fingers. Visit a medical professional (preferably a dermatologist) for safe removal

What to Do If You Are Bitten by a Tick

Proper removal at a clinic helps avoid infection and complications.

Watch for symptoms for up to two weeks: persistent fever, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, or fatigue.

If symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately, even if you did not notice a tick at the time of bite.

2. How to Prevent Insect Bites

✅ Wear long sleeves and pants (especially near rivers, mountains, or in the evening)
✅ Use insect repellent spray (choose low-stimulus types for children)
✅ Remove puddles from gardens and playgrounds to stop mosquitoes from breeding
✅ Keep trash covered to prevent flies and bees from gathering

🧴 Recommended DEET-Free Insect Repellents in Japan

Amazon.co.jp: スキンベープ 天使のスキンベープティシュプレミアム NHKいないいないばあっ! 20枚 : ドラッグストア

Amazon.co.jp: スキンベープ 天使のスキンベープ 虫除けスプレー イカリジン ミストタイプ 60ml プレミアム ベビーソープの香り トコジラミ適用 : ドラッグストア

3. Insect Repellent Products in Japan

Product	Features	Notes for Kids
Insect Repellent Spray	Covers the whole body. Effective with DEET or Icaridin	Choose low-stimulus type for children
Repellent Wipes	Easy to use outdoors	Avoid eyes and mouth
Repellent Stickers	Stick on clothes, work for 6–8 hours	Short-term effect only
Mosquito Coils	Long outdoor protection	Keep children away from fire
Plug-in or Battery Repellents	Safe for indoor use	Place out of children’s reach

4. First Aid: What to Do if Your Child Is Bitten

• Mosquito: Apply anti-itch cream
• Bee/Wasp:
  • Remove stinger with tweezers if present
  • Wash well with water
  • Call 119 (ambulance) if swelling or breathing difficulty occurs
• Horsefly: Cool the area and apply anti-itch cream

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5. 🐝 Why Visiting a Dermatologist Is Best

If your child is bitten or stung, visiting a dermatologist (皮膚科 hifuka) is highly recommended because:

• Doctors can prescribe stronger and safer medicine than over-the-counter products
• Prevents infection and inflammation
• Immediate care for allergies or serious swelling

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6. When You Can’t Visit the Doctor

If you don’t have time to go to the clinic, you can still buy safe, child-friendly medicines at drugstores or online.

• Muhi Baby Liquid (for insect bites, 40mL)

🌸 Conclusion

In Japan, insects remain active from summer through early autumn, and sometimes even into October. Protect your child’s skin with proper prevention, safe repellents, and quick treatment if bitten.

👉 Have questions about child health or living in Japan? Contact us here