Does a dead mosquito that flew into the ear require medical attention?

When a mosquito flies into the ear and dies, prompt medical intervention is generally required to prevent secondary infections.

Mosquitoes typically carry numerous bacteria, viruses, and other pathogenic microorganisms. If a dead mosquito remains in the ear canal without removal, prolonged retention may lead to infection by these pathogens, resulting in otitis externa—characterized by redness, swelling, and pain. In more severe cases, it may trigger tympanitis (inflammation of the eardrum), causing tympanic membrane congestion, or even progress to otitis media, manifesting as otorrhea (ear discharge) or purulent drainage. Such complications can significantly impair the patient’s health.

After a mosquito enters and dies inside the ear, prompt consultation with an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) is recommended. If the tympanic membrane remains intact and there are no obvious signs of inflammation—such as marked erythema, swelling, or pain in the external auditory canal—the physician may safely irrigate the ear canal with normal saline under direct supervision. If irrigation proves ineffective, an otoscope or operating microscope-assisted microsuction or forceps removal may be performed to extract the insect’s remains.

In daily life, protective measures should be taken to safeguard the ear canal and prevent insects from entering and causing adverse symptoms.