Which Flies Bite Humans?
WouterThe size and location of the bite do not always give an indication of which fly bit you. The most common bites are made by stable flies. These flies are found around livestock and are most common in the Tennessee Valley, New Jersey, and Florida panhandle. Stable fly bites are small, sharp pricks, often on the legs, ankles, or behind the knees. They cause itching, swelling, and pain. To minimize the symptoms, you can apply Benadryl or another anti-inflammatory medication. A cool compress can also help reduce the swelling and pain associated with the bite.
Although most flies do not cause harm to humans, some can cause serious allergic reactions and can carry diseases. You should always check with your doctor before attempting to treat a fly bite. While most bites are harmless, they may cause itching and swelling and should go away on their own within a few days. If you’ve been bitten in an area where mosquitoes are prevalent, however, you should seek medical attention.
Some types of flies that bite humans include horseflies and midges. Both species have black or green heads, and they are small enough to get through most screens. These insects tend to live in moist environments such as salt marshes, so they are more likely to bite you.
