The high temperatures of this summer are the best environment for pests proliferate wasps, cockroaches, flies and even rodentsas warned by Anecpla (National Association of Health Companies).
From 28 degrees, the reproduction of the multiplies and with each degree its life cycle increases by 50%.
In fact, black fly pests or simuliidae (which are popularly called ‘bloodsuckers’) and the well-known , have caused virulent attacks among farmers during collection.
What kind of insect is the ‘bloodsucking’ fly?
The black fly is not an ‘invasive’ species like the tiger mosquito. It’s about a very small insect of dark color and elongated body, whose female is the one that bites and produces more painful wounds than those of the common mosquito because try to take as much blood as possible and, although they do not transmit infectious diseases to humans, they can cause allergic reactions important.
The black fly is diurnal, being more active at first and last hour of the day. Also, not having a stylet through which to pierce the skin like mosquitoes, blackflies don’t really sting, they bite.
Where is the ‘bloodsucking’ fly found?
This insect is present throughout the Spanish geography, but it is in the Ebro river area, one of the most affected. “Historical records have been broken in the number of cases registered in the country, due to their growth and proliferation that is not sufficiently controlled,” explains the general director of Anecpla, Milagros Fernández de Lezeta, to EFE.
It is very difficult for these insects to appear in urban centers because the black fly breeds in rivers or waterfalls with very clean water and the tiger mosquito in stagnant pools.
How is your bite?
The bite of the black fly causes a intense, long-lasting and painful itching which can go on for weeks. At first we do not notice the bite as the fly inoculates an anesthetic that is both a vasodilator and an anticoagulant. In this way it goes unnoticed while feeding, but leaves a swollen and bleeding wound.
How to prevent black fly bites?
Some essences like citronella, lemon grass, geranium or lavender they prevent these types of flies from approaching a place. Other measures like install mosquito nets on the doors and windows of the house, use mosquito bulbs and use fans to create air currents, they can keep these hostile insects away.
It is also recommended avoid wet areas such as puddles, river banks or lagoonss, accumulations of water near the plants, as well as correctly disinfecting the pools.
Other warnings include closing bags and garbage cans well to avoid attractive odors, sealing cracks, checking drains…
To farmers, who are the main victims of these pests, they are advised to cover their bodies with clothing and use repellents.
How to relieve the bite of the black fly?
If the black fly has bitten us, we must clean and disinfect the wound, apply cold to the area and use creams or liquids with ammonia or vinegar. As far as possible, one should avoid scratching infections and keep the affected area at rest. Likewise, if the discomfort continues, it is advisable to see a doctor.