At the National Center for Maternal and Child Health, the Pediatric Surgery Department is grappling with a persistently high volume of cases involving children undergoing surgery for abscesses and boils. On average, the department performs surgical procedures on 30-40 children daily to address these painful and often debilitating conditions. A significant proportion of these cases are attributed to mosquito bites, which can lead to the formation of boils and subsequent purulent infections.
In Mongolia, mosquito bites are particularly prevalent during the warmer months, especially in areas with standing water such as ponds, marshes, and riverbanks. Our country’s diverse climate, ranging from harsh winters to warm summers, creates ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, which thrive in the summer heat. The frequent and sometimes severe mosquito infestations contribute to a higher incidence of mosquito-borne ailments, including the development of skin infections and boils. This seasonal increase exacerbates the already high number of cases treated by the Department of Pediatric Surgery, highlighting the urgent need for effective prevention and treatment strategies.
When queried about this ongoing issue, the Department of Pediatric Surgery provided insight, stating, “Boils frequently develop as a consequence of mosquito bites. The act of scratching the itchy area can result in damage to the delicate skin tissues, which may then become infected and inflamed. While such occurrences are not excessively frequent, they continue to present a challenge. We observe a marked increase in the incidence of boils and abscesses during the warmer summer months. Our team is tasked with performing these types of surgeries on a daily basis, often in large numbers. It is crucial for parents to ensure their children maintain high standards of personal hygiene and to be vigilant for any visible signs of wounds. If the skin becomes red, swollen, or shows signs of inflammation, it is imperative to seek immediate medical evaluation from a surgeon.”
Moreover, the excessive intake of sugary foods has been identified as a significant contributing factor to the development of abscesses and boils. For children undergoing surgical treatment for these conditions, general anesthesia is typically administered, as severe cases pose a considerable risk of further disseminating infection and bacteria throughout the body.
