How Can Flies Hurt You?
Flies are pests and can be a nuisance. They can bite you or your food, and their saliva contains bacteria that can be transmitted to humans. The bites from flies are painful and can lead to severe health problems. Fortunately, there are several ways to avoid these pests.
Deer flies are a common source of annoyance. These insects bite during the summer months and can leave red, painful bumps. They have razor-sharp mouthparts and are capable of piercing human skin to access a blood vessel. In addition to the pain of the bite, the salivary secretions can cause an allergic reaction. Antihistamines, antiseptics, and soothing lotions can help reduce the sting of flies.
Most flies bite humans in areas with a lot of livestock. Those in the Tennessee Valley, New Jersey, and the Florida panhandle are at higher risk for this type of bite. Stable fly bites can be extremely painful and itchy and can cause hives and swelling. Treatment of fly bites with Benadryl can help alleviate the pain and itching.
While the majority of flies do not cause any visible damage, the smallest species may have the potential to cause some form of illness. One type of fly that can cause illness is the tsetse fly, a six to fifteen millimeter creature that lives in shady areas. Its bite can lead to red bumps or small red ulcers. A severe infection can even lead to death.