local
Scratching that bug bite might feel good at first but science explains why it's a bad idea
By LAURAN NEERGAARD, Associated Press at Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)
· June 27, 2026
· 1 min read
WASHINGTON (AP) — You’ve likely heard it since childhood: Don’t scratch that bug bite or rash, you’ll make it worse. But why would something that feels so good be bad? A lot of things can cause itchiness, sometimes serious diseases. Whatever the cause, doctors have long warned that scratching too...
Key takeaway But why would something that feels so good be bad?
Why this matters in The Odessa
In the Permian Basin, where outdoor activities like hiking and gardening are popular, residents are no strangers to bug bites and the temptation to scratch them. As the weather warms up in Odessa , the likelihood of encountering mosquitoes, chiggers, and other biting insects increases, making it essential for locals to understand the risks of scratching. Damaging the skin through excessive scratching can lead to infections, which may require medical attention at local healthcare facilities. Furthermore, in a region where skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis are not uncommon, being mindful of scratching habits can help prevent flare-ups and reduce the need for treatment. By being aware of the potential consequences of scratching bug bites, Odessa residents can take steps to protect their skin and maintain their overall health. This is particularly important for children and individuals with pre-existing skin conditions who may be more susceptible to skin damage.
About this story
Original reporting by Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar) . The Odessa surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 27, 2026 ·
Source: Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? WASHINGTON (AP) — You’ve likely heard it since childhood: Don’t scratch that bug bite or rash, you’ll make it worse. But why would something that feels so good be bad? A lot of things can cause itchiness, sometimes serious diseases. Whatever the cause, doctors have long warned that scratching too...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 27, 2026 by Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar) and curated for The Odessa readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by LAURAN NEERGAARD, Associated Press at Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar). To learn more about how The Odessa selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Odessa, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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