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Are These Bed Bugs or Fleas?


While bed bug and flea bites may look similar, there are ways to tell them apart. Discover how to spot the difference and tell if it’s a bed bug or fleas

 

Regardless of whether you’re dealing with bed bugs or fleas, you want them gone from your home. Now. But before you drive yourself crazy scratching, it’s important to know which of the two nearly invisible arthropods you’re dealing with. Treatments are necessary in both cases. However, depending on whether you have bed bugs or fleas, the most effective treatment will differ.

What is the difference between bed bugs and fleas?

While both require a warm-blooded host to provide blood meals, fleas tend to prefer feeding on hairy or furry animals such as cats and dogs. Bed bugs prefer feeding on your family.

To this end, cats, dogs and other animals (including outdoor wildlife) are generally associated with bringing fleas into the home, as opposed to bed bugs, which are generally brought in by people.

While fleas can live several months without a host in the pupa stage, adult fleas can only live about two weeks. Adult bed bugs can survive up to a year between feedings.

One flea can lay between 150 and 300 eggs every week. One bed bug can lay 200 in a lifetime (approximately 10 months to one year).

Bed bugs do not fly or jump. They have to crawl across your bed to feed. Fleas can jump almost 200 times their body length: 13 inches. This helps them transfer between hosts and “hitch rides” to travel to new sources of food (i.e., you and your family).

While bed bugs have not been discovered to pass on human pathogens, fleas have the ability to spread diseases such as typhus, plague and cat-scratch fever.

How can you tell bed bugs and fleas apart?

If you’ve captured one of these little assailants, immobilize the pest with a piece of clear tape. This will ensure it doesn’t escape to bite again while also allowing you to examine the bug before showing it to your professional pest control experts. Here’s how to tell if you’ve caught bed bugs or fleas:

  1. Bed bugs are reddish-brown, flat and seed-shaped. They range from 1.5 mm to 5 mm long.
  2. Fleas are also reddish-brown but have a more oval shape that appears skinnier and longer, rather than flatter. Fleas are also generally smaller, ranging in length from 1.5 mm to 3.3 mm.
  3. Bed bugs are nocturnal, and if you do see them, they are likely to be digesting meals on the piping of your mattress, in and around the bed frame or box spring, along the baseboards and creeping around in other well-hidden cracks and crevices.
  4. Fleas are also nocturnal parasites but are more likely to be found clinging to your pets, making themselves at home in animal sleeping areas or lurking around in your upholstery or carpeting, waiting to hop on for a bite.

What bit me – bed bugs or fleas?

If you’re scratching at red marks on your body, you likely already have an infestation. If you have children and pets, check for signs of bites on them as well. Here are a few things that will help you figure out whether you have fleas or bed bugs, although it is important to remember that bite marks depend on the person and can be very situational:

  1. Flea bites resemble a cluster of mosquito bites. They are usually randomly placed and often appear as dots with a dark red center from the single puncture bite of the flea’s specially built mouth, allowing it to suck blood.
  2. Bed bug bites appear as raised, flat red welts due to an allergic reaction to the anesthesia and anticoagulants found in the bug’s saliva. Bed bug bites often appear in a straight row or line, consisting of three or four bites, though this is not always the case.
  3. A flea wheal (red bump) becomes swollen less than an hour after the bite. It starts to itch immediately and persistently. The bite can turn into an open sore or blister in one to two days.
  4. Bed bug bites can take a few days or even a week to show up. They gradually begin to itch more as well, since the anesthetic from their saliva starts to wear off.
  5. Bed bugs come out for blood meals every seven to 10 days as you sleep. Adult female fleas will feed numerous times, day and night – often for hours on end – if you let them.

Whether you have bed bugs or fleas, there’s only one true solution: kill them now. Call Terminix® at the first sign of intrusion; even one bloodthirsty biter can take over your family’s home.

Identification, other bites, and what to do next

Both bed bugs and fleas can leave multiple bites. In many cases, these bites can be intensely itchy and irritating.

Fleas are a common pet care concern. They are particularly common among pets that do not undergo preventative flea treatment. Bed bugs are also common, especially in communal living environments such as nursing homes and hotels.

Fleas can transmit some diseases, such as flea-borne typhus, whereas bed bugs do not typically spread disease.

People with allergies may have intense reactions to bites, and some even develop infections. In most households, however, fleas and bed bugs are an inconvenience, not a real danger.

Being able to tell the difference between fleas and bed bugs is key to getting rid of them. Read on to learn how to identify different bites, and what to do next.

Fleas prefer living on furry animals such as cats and dogs, typically around their neck and belly areas. However, they may bite people incidentally, after jumping off a host. In humans, fleabites generally appear on the legs and ankles.

Bed bugs prefer to eat the blood of humans. They therefore take up residence in beds and other places that give them easy access to human blood. They cannot jump or fly.

The table below shows some key differences between fleabites and bed bug bites:

FleasBed bugs
Bite symptomsFleabites cause small bumps that tend to be very itchy.Bites may appear as small red spots that may or may not itch.
Bite developmentBites may have a dark red center. They may also develop into blisters. Scratching these bites can lead to infection.Over time, bed bug bites may produce a hard, white swelling that may bleed.
Bite patternFleabites may group into clusters or lines.The bites sometimes appear in a straight line of three or four bites.
Bite frequencyFleas bite whenever they get the chance.Bed bugs tend to feed every 3 days and may be more likely to feed at night. People who have bed bugs in their home may notice a regular pattern to bites.

Other bites

Fleas and bed bugs are not the only creatures that can bite. Some signs that something else might be the culprit include the fact that:

People who experience bed bug bites do not necessarily have bed bugs living in their home. For example, bites may occur after a trip to a house or hotel infested with bed bugs.

However, there is a fair chance that if a person has stayed in a location with bed bugs, they may have brought some home.

Some signs of a bed bug infestation in the home include:

  • Visible bed bugs: These may appear as tiny bugs or dots in the folds of sheets or pillowcases or in the seams of a mattress.
  • Bed bug exoskeletons: These crunchy looking bed bug shells may be visible in or around the bed.
  • Bed bug feces: These tiny, rust colored spots may appear on the sheets or mattress.
  • An unusual odor: There may be a sweet or musty odor coming from the mattress or sheets.

Some signs that there are fleas in the home include:

  • Visible fleas: There may be visible fleas on a family pet, or tiny jumping insects in the home.
  • Visible flea eggs: These clear or yellowish flecks may be visible on the pet’s fur.
  • Visible flea feces: These dark black specks may be visible in a pet’s fur or on their bedding.
  • Changes in the pet’s behavior: The pet may become unusually itchy or anxious.
  • Changes in the pet’s health: The pet may develop anemia from excessive blood loss due to fleabites. If this is the case, their gums may appear pale. A pet with anemia requires veterinary attention.

It is important to note that both fleas and bed bugs can be present in a home at the same time.

After discovering a flea or bed bug bite, a person may want to treat the bite. If an infestation is present, a person should then try to treat the infestation.

Treating the bites

Both bed bug bites and fleabites rarely require treatment. However, some people may choose to apply an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to soothe the discomfort.

People should avoid scratching the bites, as this can cause further skin irritation.

It is also important for a person to see a doctor if they develop any symptoms of an infection. Such symptoms include fever or intense pain and swelling around the bite.

Treating the infestation

Insecticides can quickly kill bed bugs and prevent them from coming back. The safest option is to hire an exterminator who can treat the infestation. Replacing the bed sheets after this can help minimize a person’s exposure to the pesticides.

Exterminators are not usually necessary to eliminate a flea infestation. People with pets should contact a veterinarian to explore options for killing fleas and flea eggs on a pet.

Because fleas prefer to live on furry animals, they usually die shortly after the pet receives treatment. Thoroughly vacuuming and washing the pet’s bedding in hot water can help eliminate flea eggs.

If the fleas do not disappear after treating the pet, or if there is no pet, people should contact an exterminator. The exterminator will establish whether or not fleas really are the culprit. They will then decide on the appropriate treatment for the home.

Bed bugs are generally harmless to people and cannot spread disease. Some fleas carry diseases such as plague or flea-borne typhus. Both fleas and bed bugs can be a serious inconvenience, and many people feel disgusted upon seeing them.

In most cases, a few simple home treatments can rid the home of both bed bugs and fleas.

Because exterminating these pests requires the use of toxic pesticides, the safest option is to work with a professional. Ask a veterinarian about the safest way to kill fleas, and consult an exterminator about safely eliminating bed bugs from the home.

Bed bug bites: Pictures, treatment, and prevention

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Most people who are bitten by bed bugs experience symptoms that include irritation, sores, or itchiness. But how should bed bug bites be treated and can they be prevented?

There are several ways of reducing the chances of getting bites, while the treatment options include good hygiene and antihistamines.

This article explores bed bug bite treatment and prevention methods in detail.

Bed bugs are small parasitic insects that feed on human blood.

While they are a public health concern, bed bugs are not known to transmit disease through their bites.

Bed bugs use a small tube-like structure called a proboscis to pierce the skin and drink a person’s blood. The pests are most active when humans are asleep, during the night and early morning.

An estimated one in five Americans have personally dealt with a bed bug infestation or knows someone who has encountered the pests.

Bed bugs can bite anywhere on the body where there is skin. Typically, bites tend to occur on areas exposed during sleeping, such as:

  • neck
  • face
  • hands
  • shoulders
  • arms
  • legs

Many people do not feel the bite itself or develop clear symptoms other than the dots where the bug bit and some minor, surrounding inflammation and irritation. Others are considered hypersensitive to bites and develop more severe symptoms.

In most cases symptoms occur more or less immediately after the bite, but they can develop or progress over the following days as well. Without further irritation, symptoms typically resolve after a week or so.

Almost all bed bug bites will produce some degree of discomfort, typically itchiness and inflammation. Other signs and symptoms of bed bug bites include:

  • a burning painful sensation
  • a raised itchy bump with a clear center
  • a red itchy bump with a dark center and lighter swollen surrounding area
  • small red bumps or welts in a zigzag pattern or a line
  • small red bumps surrounded by blisters or hives
  • papular eruptions or areas of skin with raised or flat patches that may be inflamed
  • small spots of blood from bites often dried or stained onto sheets or bed clothing
  • reddish or reddish-brown dried stains on fabrics due to bed bug droppings
  • white or clear skins, shed by the nymphs as they mature

Individual characteristics of the bug’s bite and the person who is bitten also influence the resulting sore.

While fairly rare, some people have or develop severe reactions and symptoms from bed bug bites. Serious symptoms that require medical attention include:

  • difficulty breathing
  • blisters
  • fever
  • feeling nauseous or flu-like
  • swollen tongue
  • irregular heartbeat

Living with bed bugs can cause additional health complications:

  • Increased likelihood of infection: Due to the skin’s surface being compromised.
  • Sleep deprivation: The idea of being fed on can be extremely stressful. Given that the bugs only feed at night, some people will avoid sleep or will only get fitful or restless sleep.
  • Decreased wellbeing: A continual lack of sleep has been linked to feelings of depression, anxiety, general fatigue, and lowered immune function. The misconceptions surrounding bed bugs, especially the mistaken association with lack of cleanliness, can add to feelings of depression and low self-esteem.

Share on PinterestBed bug bites should heal on their own, but may be itchy and swollen in the meantime.
Image credit: James Heilman MD, 2013

There are relatively few treatments options when it comes to uncomplicated bed bug bites.

The first recommended line of treatment involves cleaning the wound, ideally with soap and water.

For itchy bites, the following may relieve minor symptoms:

  • over-the-counter hydrocortisone, which can be purchased online.
  • anti-itch creams
  • antihistamines

Most wounds heal on their own within a week, sometimes two.

If severe swelling, inflammation, or itchiness occurs or persists, a person should seek medical attention.

A dramatic immune response may be a sign of an allergic reaction. If this is the case, one of the following may need to be administered:

  • an injectable corticosteroid
  • antihistamine
  • epinephrine medication

If infection occurs, antibiotics may be prescribed.

Severe itchiness may result in further complications, such as infection or scarring. If severe itching is experienced, people may be prescribed corticosteroid creams and antihistamine pills or liquid.

Share on PinterestOlder bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed and are brown in color.

One way to help prevent exposure and potential infestations by bed bugs is to be able to recognize bed bugs and distinguish them from other pests.

In a 2017 study, some 35 percent of polled American business travellers and 28 percent of leisure travellers were unable to tell a bed bug apart from other household pests.

Common characteristics of nymphs (young bed bugs) include:

  • being less than than 5 mm in length
  • whitish-yellow and or clear-colored
  • invisible without a microscope or magnifying glass

The nymphs are easier to see if they have just feed when the blood fills their abdomen, giving it a reddish brown color.

Adult bed bugs are typically far easier to spot than nymphs. Identifiable characteristics of most adult bed bugs include:

  • an oval-shaped body
  • apple seed in size
  • a body that is fairly flat unless recently fed and inflated
  • reddish-brown to light-brown or tan color of shell, depending on how recently it fed
  • a length of 5-7 millimeters (mm)
  • three segments, an antenna with four parts, short yellow hairs, and unusable wings
  • a musty or stale-sweet scent released by glands on the underbelly

Controlling bed bugs needs the identification and complete removal or destruction of the pest’s eggs.

On average, one female can produce at least 345 eggs over her lifetime. Egg-laying females often increase the volume and frequency of feeding to support their brood.

Common characteristics and signs of bed bug eggs include:

  • they are often laid in the same places where the female choses to rest
  • they resemble tiny barrel-shaped, pearl-colored specks, no bigger than the head of a pin
  • they develop a noticeable eye spot after a few days

The key to preventing bed bug bites is to stop the insects entering, feeding, and breeding in human environments.

In the daytime, bed bugs often seek refuge in the cracks and crevices of furniture, flooring, walls, and mattresses.

The seams and folds of upholstered furniture can also offer an ideal hiding place. Bed bugs have been known to persist in vacuum canisters or units.

The insects tend to pick hiding spots near human sleeping quarters, including bedrooms. Bed bugs found in other rooms are usually a sign of a severe infestation.

Areas where bed bug infestations commonly occur include:

Share on PinterestSearching for bed bugs includes looking for reddish-brown stains caused by their droppings and the clear skins shed by nymphs as they mature.

  • apartment or condominium buildings
  • large office spaces
  • hotels
  • vacation rentals
  • cruise ships
  • daycares
  • nursing homes
  • hospitals
  • college dormitories or housing units
  • public transportation, including airplanes
  • shopping malls
  • furniture or second hand stores
  • urban areas
  • rented homes

Items commonly responsible for spreading bed bugs include:

  • used or secondhand furniture
  • new furniture or textiles exposed to bed bugs during transit
  • items of luggage
  • chairs or loungers where people fall asleep
  • bedding or bed clothes
  • moving or storage boxes
  • shipped items, especially if held at several locations or warehouses

Bed bugs do not have a preference between sanitary, messy, or unsanitary conditions.

They can, however, be found at higher rates in places, such as hotels, if infestations are not properly cleared.

Home tips for preventing, controlling, and clearing bed bug infestations include:

    • Avoid furniture or items from infested areas or environments commonly impacted by bed bugs, such as apartment buildings.
    • Pick furniture or items made out of materials that do not typically contain cracks, crevices or seams, including plastic, stone, metal, plaster, and high-weave textiles.

Share on PinterestWashing bedding at high temperatures and checking for signs of bed bugs in hotel rooms can help prevent bed bug bites.

  • Fill or seal cracks, crevices, and seams with products, such as glue or calking.
  • Clean bedding and bed clothing regularly.
  • Wash and dry bedding at high heat.
  • Vacuum upholstered items regularly and thoroughly, including mattresses, pillows, etc.
  • Clean heavier bedding items, including mattresses, pillows, comforters, and duvet covers, using high heat, ideally the “dry steam” setting available on modern washing machines.
  • Use a hand steamer to kill eggs and bugs in luggage or upholstered items.
  • When traveling, keep luggage on racks and away from floors, beds, and furniture.
  • Check for signs of bed bugs upon entering hotel rooms or other pest hot spots.
  • Remember, where there is one bed bug there are usually many, often in the areas surrounding or adjacent to the infected room or item.
  • Cover as much of the skin as possible while sleeping.

In severe or persistent cases, furniture or infected items may need to be destroyed, ideally by burning.

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How To Tell Bed Bug Bites From Other Insect Bites

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There are a lot of insects in the world. It is estimated that insects outnumber humans 200 million to one. 200 million! That’s a lot of bugs. Fortunately, not all insects bite humans. If they did, we’d all be covered in bites. All the time. From head to toe. But, there are enough insects that do want to bite us–enough to make it difficult to figure out which bites are from which insect. This is especially troublesome if you’re trying to figure out if you have bed bugs. Hopefully, this article will shed some much-needed light on the issue, and help you square things away. 

Characteristics Of A Bed Bug Bite 

  • Bed bugs are interior insects. They live almost exclusively with humans. This fact is helpful to know if you want to figure out whether or not you’re being bitten by bed bugs. If you haven’t been out camping recently and spent any time in wet, outdoor areas, all of those insect bites are probably from an interior bug.

  • Bed bugs are mostly nocturnal. If you wake up in the morning and you have two dozen more bites than you had when you went to bed, it is likely that you have bed bugs. It is important to note, however, that some individuals are more resistant to bed bug bites than others, and bites may not become noticeable for a day or two.

  • Bed bugs feed multiple times. If you’re being fed on by bed bugs, it is likely that you are going to find numerous bites on your skin. But, what is unique about bed bugs is that each individual bug will feed more than once during the night. Some entomologists, who fancy themselves comedians, refer to bed bug bites as breakfast, lunch, and dinner. But, if you’re being feasted on by these blood-eating pests, you know that there is nothing funny about it. This is a good fact to know, however. If you have bites that come in sets of threes, or look as if they follow a trail up your body, it is more likely that those bites came from bed bugs rather than several individual, single-biting, insects.

  • Bites worsen over time. When an infestation of bed bugs takes root in a home, bites start off fewer in number. But, there is another, more interesting characteristic of new bites. They are usually less noticeable. Immature bed bug nymphs inject less anticoagulant into a bite wound than adult bed bugs. This leads to less irritation, less swelling, and less of a rash. Over time, bites get worse. When adult bed bugs bite, they inject more anticoagulant. And, over the course of several exposures to this anticoagulant, the allergic reaction increases. Bites that start out as tiny dots that can become painful, itchy, swollen welts.

There Are Several Bugs That Can Bite You In Your Home

Here are some traits that help to distinguish them from bed bug bites: 

  • Flea bites often happen around the ankles and on the lower legs. They are also associated with a terrible itch. This can cause a flea bite to have a scab in the center of an inflamed bite wound.

  • While mosquitoes are an outdoor pest, they are also a flying pest, which makes it possible for them to get inside our homes. But inside bites from mosquitoes will be limited. If you’re being bitten by a mosquito, or two, you’ll have one or two bites that will probably have a puffy look to them. This depends on your skin type, and your age.

  • Mite bites can be numerous, just like those bed bug bites. They can also look like bed bug bites. The important difference is the pattern mentioned above. Mite bites will be random, not in a trail or series of three bite marks, like bed bug bites.

The best way to know if the bites you’re finding on your skin were caused by bed bugs is to actually see a bed bug. If you have bed bugs in your South Portland home, they are definitely biting you. For assistance with a bed bug infestation in New England, contact Big Blue Bug Solutions. When it comes to protecting homes and businesses from bed bugs, you can trust Big Blue Bug Solutions.

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Bed Bugs 101 | Disease & Bite Symptoms

Although over 28 disease pathogens have been found in bed bugs, transmission of these pathogens to humans has never been documented and is considered highly unlikely. For this reason, they are not considered a serious disease threat. Their medical significance is mainly limited to the itching and inflammation associated with their bite. Not everyone reacts to bed bug bites in the same fashion. Some people have reactions that are delayed for several days or more while others do not react at all. Reactions to bites can also vary significantly between individuals from a mild itchy welt to a more severe rash like symptom. The most common reactions appear as a raised, reddened welt similar to a mosquito bite. Bites tend to be very itchy and often appear in rows of 3-4 welts or more. There are currently a couple of explanations for why bites often appear in rows. The first explanation is based on the sensitivity of bed bugs to motion. A single bug may withdraw its mouthparts while feeding in response to the slightest disturbance (i.e. person twitches during sleep). After removing their mouthparts, the bug will move a short distance and then begin feeding again, resulting in several bites in a row caused by a single bug. The second explanation involves numerous bugs that are lined up one next to the other (typically along a fold in a bed sheet) all feeding at the same time (similar to cattle at a trough). The important point is that the number of welts does not always correlate with the number of bugs that bit the individual. Thus, just a few bugs can be responsible for many welts in a single evening.

It is also very important to realize that bed bugs cannot be diagnosed by the bite alone. While a medical professional can examine the bites, they can only conclude that the bite symptoms are consistent with those produced by bed bugs. This is not a confirmation however it does provide the grounds for suspecting that bed bugs may be present and that a professional should be called in to perform an inspection for the presence of bed bugs in the structure where the bites occurred.

Bite symptoms vary among different individuals.
It is not uncommon for bites to occur in multiples, often in a row or line.

Diagnosing Mysterious “Bug Bites” – Insects in the City

Parasitosis is the condition of being parasitized, bitten, or lived on by another organism. Recognizing this condition in people, however, is not always easy, and undiagnosed “bites” are one of the most frustrating of all pest control problems. This fact sheet is intended to shed some light on situations where diagnosis of a biting problem is difficult to obtain.

Q. What could be biting me indoors?

Not many arthropod pests actually infest human skin or clothing. The few that do include:

  • Lice. Includes head lice, body lice, and pubic lice. 1-3 mm in length. Feed on blood. Transmitted by close physical contact with another infested person. Head lice live exclusively among the hairs on the head.  Body lice, which resemble head lice, live in clothing and are rare in the U.S. except among some homeless populations.
  • Scabies mites. These mites are microscopic and feed in human skin. They are transmitted mostly by physical contact with an infected human or pet. Only the human scabies mite (not found on pets) can propagate and sustain infestations in human skin.   Not treatable with pesticides applied to the home or bed.
  • Hair follicle mites. These are also microscopic mites. However, these mites live in the hair follicles and sebaceous glands of humans. They are considered harmless, or at worst associated with some forms of acne.

Other arthropods that are sometimes found indoors and are capable of biting humans include:

  • Fleas. 2-6 mm in length. These are parasitic insects that must feed on blood to survive. Fleas in this country require an animal (non-human) host, such as dog or cat, on which to breed. Bites tend to occur mostly on lower legs.
  • Chiggers. Microscopic mites that live outdoors. Only the larval form (smallest life stage) of the chigger mite is parasitic on man. Chiggers are found exclusively outdoors in grass, soil, weedy areas; however itching may not occur for several hours after encountering the mites. Chigger bites are usually concentrated around areas of tight clothing, such as under socks and around waist.
  • Bed bugs. Adults reach 5 mm- (1/4 inch-) long. Bed bugs are flattened, oval-shaped insects that hide during day and emerge at night to feed on warm-blooded animals. Human bed bug infestations  are increasing in frequency in Texas, especially in apartments and hotels where residents come and go, and where the bugs can move from one unit to another. Nevertheless, they are still relatively uncommon, especially in single-family homes. Bird and bat bugs, relatives of the bed bug, may also be rarely encountered. Bites to humans generally occur only in areas of a structure next to the nesting sites of bats or birds, such as chimney swifts and purple martins. Bed bug bites are painless but can lead to itching and inflammation, and are sometimes accompanied by series of red blotches on the skin.
  • Conenose (or kissing) bugs. These are relatively large insects, 10-30 mm- (3/4 to 1/8 inch-) long. They emerge at night to feed on vertebrate blood, but are uncommon in well-constructed homes. Bites occur most commonly on hands, arms, feet, head or other areas exposed during sleep.
  • Mosquitoes. These are delicate, generally small (2-4 mm) flies that live mostly outdoors, but can enter homes. Adult mosquitoes feed on the blood of humans, birds and other animals. Most species are active mostly in evenings and mornings. They cause flat, raised welts on exposed skin.
  • Thrips. Thrips are minute, elongated insects (1-2 mm long) that feed exclusively on flowers and growing plants. However, thrips occasionally land on skin and bite people, especially outdoors. Thrips bites are a temporary, minor irritation but causes no visible welts or bites. Washing the arms or hands immediately cures a thrips “infestation”.
  • Spiders. Spiders are a diverse group of eight legged arthropods. Spider bites are rare, and thus can be ruled out in cases of people with multiple lesions or bites.  Individuals vary in their reactions to bites, though spider bites are generally harmless. The only truly dangerous spiders in Texas are the black widow and brown recluse.
  • Bird and rodent mites. Minute, 1 mm long mites that can be difficult to diagnose. These mites normally infest rodents and bird nests, but will occasionally disperse from these sites and bite humans. See the following section on mites.

Most of these pests infest homes temporarily and can be controlled via pesticide treatment, or by eliminating the source of the infestation. Arthropod bites are often hard to diagnose without an examination, good description of the bite(s), information about how and when the bites occurred, and (ideally) a specimen of the suspected pest. Although many biting arthropods leave clues that help with diagnosis (such as the pattern and types of lesions), it is often very difficult to determine the cause of a bite with certainty without a specimen or observation of the bite or sting taking place.

Q. Do I need to know what it is before I treat?

It is essential to diagnose, at least in a general sense, the cause of a problem before prescribing a treatment. Without a confirmed pest identification, use of pesticide sprays or lice creams should be avoided. Pesticides generally kill insects and mites by affecting the nervous systems of these pests. Pesticides can affect humans in the same way if overused, or used improperly. Creams and shampoos designed for the control of scabies or lice are pesticides. These products are generally safe when label directions are followed; but even over-the-counter medications can be dangerous if over-applied or used improperly. In the same way, household pesticide sprays and foggers should not be used repeatedly against unseen pests. Although people may initially believe that such applications help (usually temporarily), these types of applications may cause more long-term health problems than they solve.

Q. How can I get a specimen to help with diagnosis?

To be certain about a diagnosis it is best, of course, to capture the pest in the act of biting; however, this is sometimes not possible. Wiping up a crawling insect and placing it in alcohol is fine for larger specimens. In cases where pests are extremely small or difficult to observe (such as with mites), tape or sticky traps are useful for specimen collection. Use tape to pick up small specimens directly from the skin. Sticky traps are cardboard cards with a glue surface for capturing small crawling insects. They can be purchased through do-it-yourself pest control stores, online, or through pest control companies. Roach hotels, such as are commonly sold in grocery and hardware stores, are also suitable for small specimen collection. Place several sticky traps in areas of the home or office where bites are believed to occur. Along the edges of walls and under and around beds are good locations. Even very small mites can be seen with the naked eye or a 10X magnifying lens once trapped on a sticky board surface.

Many different kinds of harmless insects are liable to be trapped on sticky boards. Field guides with pictures can help with identification and are available in most libraries and bookstores. When identification is in doubt, bring the sticky board to a pest control company or other qualified expert. Samples of vacuum cleaner bag contents, or sweepings, or general collections of dead insects are seldom helpful in diagnosing problems with biting arthropods.

Q. What kind of mites bite people?

Mites are small arthropods with eight legs, more closely related to spiders than insects. Several mite species can be found in homes and offices. Some are associated with stored foods, such as grain, cheese, and flour mites. These are most commonly found in food storage areas with high humidities. Others, like bird and rodent mites, are found in buildings with bird or rodent infestations. Bird and rodent mites, like the northern fowl mite, house mouse mite, and tropical rat mite, are among the most common culprits in difficult-to-diagnose arthropod infestations. These mites live in bird and rodent nests. Although these mites occasionally bite humans, they do not feed, nor can they successfully survive or reproduce, without their natural hosts. The most effective method for eliminating such mite infestations is to control and remove any rodents (e.g., house mice, rats, squirrels, etc.) or birds (e.g., swallows, sparrows, starlings, pigeons) from the structure. This is best accomplished with the help of a professional pest control company familiar with control of these pests. Once the hosts of these mites are eliminated, insecticidal sprays can be used by a professional pest control operator to reduce any residual mite populations.

Only two kinds of mites actually live and feed in human skin: the scabies mite and the hair follicle mite. Of the two, only the scabies mite commonly causes bites or itching. Scabies must be diagnosed by a physician, usually via scrapings from the skin. Treatment consists of various prescription medicated creams and ointments. Hair follicle mites are harmless, though may be associated in some individuals with a type of acne. Follicle mites can be found in the skin of most adult humans.

Q.

If the problem isn’t a “bug”, what could it be?

When all attempts to identify a biting arthropod fails, or when a description of the affliction fails to fit the criteria of any known parasitic arthropod, there must be an alternative explanation. A variety of environmental factors, for example, can produce the false perception of insect bites. Medical conditions such as diabetes, liver disease, thyroid disorders, kidney disease, icterus, lymphoblastoma, pellagra, and others can cause perceptions of parasitosis, dermatitis, or hives. In addition, certain medications can cause unusual skin sensations and itching. Changes in medication can cause a variety of novel side effects that mimic parasitosis.

Enzyme-based detergents, fabric softeners, soaps, creams, makeup, deodorants, perfumes and other toiletries can cause skin sensations or reactions that can be mistaken for insect bites. House plants, cold water vaporizers, humidifiers, and dirty air vents can be sources of airborne mold spores, mildews, and bacteria that could cause skin reactions. Higher indoor humidities combined with dust and dander accumulations in furniture can support populations of house dust mites.

Contrary to popular opinion, dust mites do not bite or feed on people.  Instead, it is the tiny, airborne fragments of dust mite shed skins and feces that cause allergies for people. Reducing indoor humidity and consistent, thorough vacuuming with a HEPA-filtered vacuum can help reduce dust mite allergens in homes.

Allergies due to pollens, molds and mildews and cockroach infestations can cause skin sensations and reactions that can be mistaken for insect bites. Also, weather with lower humidities, such as during the winter months, can increase static electricity in a home or office environment. Static charges can cause small “shocks” that feel like bites. Fibers, paper slivers, and the like, attracted by static charges to legs and skin of workers have been implicated in “bite” complaints that sometimes occur among office workers. In offices, chemicals in carbonless paper and photocopier chemicals can cause reactions in some individuals.

Q. Can bites be imaginary?

A delusion is a “false belief that cannot be corrected by reason… or even by the evidence of the patient’s own senses”. Delusory parasitosis is a recognized medical condition characterized by an unfounded, yet unshakable, belief that live insects are present in the skin. Classified as a form of hypochondria, delusory parasitosis, like other mental disfunctions, arises from emotional or physiological problems over which the sufferer may have no control. In some cases, this condition can been traced to stress or trauma in the patient’s life. The following description from the Physician’s Guide to Arthropods of Medical Importance (J.A. Goddard, CRC Press, 1993) further describes patterns and circumstances typical of delusory parasitosis:

Sometimes an initial and real insect infestation precedes and triggers the delusion. …the “bugs” may appear and disappear while they are being watched; they enter the skin and reappear and invade the hair, nose, and ears…The patients claim that the “bugs” are able to survive repeated insecticidal sprays and the use of medicated shampoos and lotions. Frequently there is a history of numerous visits to medical doctors and dermatologists. Lesions may be present, although neurotic excoriation (self-inflicted skin wounds) may be the cause. …Out of desperation the victims may move out of their home, only to report later that the “bugs” have followed them there too. An affected person may be so positive of his infestation and give such a detailed description that other family members may agree with the patient. They may even be “infected” themselves, thus the delusion has been transferred.

Q. “I know I am being bitten by tiny bugs that you can’t see! They come in and out of my skin. They’re in my clothes! They jump on me! They only come out after 5:00 at night! Sometimes they change color. “

None of these statements are likely to be true, based on the appearance and behavior of medically important arthropods. Taken individually, each one could be a reasonable (if inaccurate) response by someone who believes they are suffering from an arthropod infestation. However, when no insects or mites can be found by pest control professionals, the problem is confined to one or very few people, reasonable environmental or medical explanations have been ruled out, and a pattern of unreliable statements (such as the examples above) are produced by the victim, the possibility of self delusion must be considered.

Q. I just want to get rid of this problem. What should I do?

Here are some suggestions for dealing with an undiagnosed itching or “biting” problem: Vacuum and dust the premises thoroughly. Clean office equipment, such as paper handling machinery, frequently. Vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters are most effective in preventing recirculation of allergens during cleaning. Change or clean air filters in air handling units monthly. Consider replacing standard fiberglass filters with electrostatic-type filters. Experiment with discontinuing use of any “new” laundry, dishwashing soap, air fresheners, cosmetics, perfumes or other personal care products. Reduce mold and mildew problems by installing a vapor barrier and vents in crawl spaces, or installing a dehumidifier and/or air conditioning in damp rooms. Correct plumbing leaks or condensation problems. Consult with your doctor about possible allergies or other undiagnosed medical conditions that might cause skin reactions. Consult with your doctor about possible adverse reactions to “new” medications. Have pets checked by a veterinarian for possible mite or scabies infestations. Consult with a pest control professional or Board Certified Entomologist concerning identification of suspected insect or mite infestations. Eliminate rodent or bird infestations with the help of a pest control professional. Seek professional psychiatric assistance for suspected cases of delusory parasitosis. Effective medical and psychiatric treatments are available for this condition through either physicians, dermatologists or psychiatrists.

For more information

For more information about the various pests mentioned in this publication, contact your county Extension office. For general information about mental illness, contact the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill ( Department P, 200 N. Glebe Road, Arlington, VA 22203-3754; 1-800-950-6264; http://www.nami.org/) or the National Institute for Mental Health (301-443-4513; http://www.nimh.nih.gov/).

Authors

Michael Merchant, Ph.D., Urban Entomologist, Texas AgriLife Extension Service

Reviewed by Nancy C. Hinkle, PhD., Department of Entomology, University of Georgia

Why Do Bed Bugs Bite in a Straight Line? — Bed Bugs Insider

If you’ve ever experienced a bed bug infestation, you might have noticed a peculiar pattern to their bites. Bed bug bites appear on the skin in lines or clusters. The pattern of their bites is often nicknamed “breakfast, lunch, and dinner.”

Bed bugs don’t always bite in straight lines. Each bed bug will only feed once per night. However, they may become dislodged mid-feed, or be unable to find a good blood vessel and so will un-latch and bite in a different spot. This is why you might find bites in lines or small groups. Other time, you may find individual bites.

We’re going to look at how why bed bugs bite their host. We’ll discuss how their mouthparts work and why bites always seem to appear in groups or clusters. We’ll also find out what kind of bugs bite in a line other than bed bugs.

Why Do Bed Bugs Bite Humans?

Before we get into the mechanics of bed bug bites, let’s briefly look at why bed bugs need to bite us in the first place.

Bed bugs have lived alongside humans for thousands of years, drinking our blood while we sleep. After all, it’s a great source of nutrition for a tiny insect. Blood is full of fat, protein, and sugar, and is readily available anywhere that mammals can be found.

Originally, bed bugs evolved from parasites called “bat bugs.” These virtually identical insects live in caves, and feed on the blood of bats. They still exist today.

When humans started living in caves, however, some bat bugs decided they preferred to feed on humans. We don’t move around as much while we sleep, and we aren’t insectivores.

Over the years, bed bugs have become adapted to living with and feeding on humans. They thrive at room temperature (70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit) and are small enough to penetrate the tiny crevices of our homes. Their mouthparts are perfectly designed for piercing human skin and drinking from our blood vessels.

In fact, bed bugs literally can’t consume or digest any substance other than blood. If they stopped biting us, they’d die. And unfortunately for us, bed bugs are determined to live.

How Do Bed Bugs Bite Humans?

So now that we know why bed bugs bite humans, let’s look into how they do it. When you wake up with those irritating, itchy bite marks, what has happened?

Find a Human Host

The first step is for the bed bug to seek out a human host to bite.

Usually, bed bugs will live somewhere that is close to humans, such as in a mattress or box spring.

When we’re nearby, bed bugs can always tell: they can detect the carbon dioxide, body heat and other chemical signals that humans give off.

Once a bed bug detects a human, they’ll follow the trail until they come into contact with us. Bed bugs usually wait until the middle of the night, when there’s a strong chance that we’ll be asleep.

Find an Unprotected Area of Skin

The second step is to find an area of our skin that is unprotected by clothing.

Bed bugs do not have the mouthparts necessary to bite or chew through thick clothing; the most they can penetrate is thin mesh fabric, like tulle. So, a bed bug will crawl around until they find an exposed area to bite.

As they’re so small, they can easily fit underneath the openings in our pajamas, such as the leg and arm holes.

Bite

Once a suitable area of skin has been found, the bed bug will pierce the skin with its specialized beak-like mouth part.

As it bites, the bed bug’s saliva will make contact with the wound. Bed bug saliva contains two main components, according to Clinical Infectious Diseases:

  • Anticoagulants, which prevent blood from clotting, so that it flows freely
  • Anesthetic compounds, so that we don’t feel any initial pain from the bite.

Once the wound has been created, the bed bug extends its proboscis underneath our skin, to search for a viable blood vessel. When a blood vessel is found, the bed bug begins to drink.

Feed Until Full

It usually takes around 10 minutes for a bed bug to fill up completely once it has started to feed.

The bed bug will try to drink its entire fill from the same blood vessel. However, sometimes, this isn’t possible for one reason or another.

If a bed bug has to prematurely detach itself from the site that it was feeding on, it will bite another area of skin. This could be nearby to the first bite, or some distance away from it.

Eventually, your skin will develop a reaction to the bed bug’s bite. This could be the following day or several days later, depending on your immune system. You’ll notice a swollen red lump, which might sting or itch.

Do Bed Bugs Always Bite in a Row?

People who are dealing with bed bug infestations often report that bed bug bites occur in lines, rows or clusters. Is this accurate?

The stereotypical “three bites in a line” idea, often nicknamed “breakfast, lunch, and dinner,” is largely false. It is a myth that each bed bug bites three times in one night. As we’ve discussed, if a bed bug can drink its fill from one bite, it will do so.

However, in some cases, you will experience three (or more) bed bug bites in a row, line, or group. There are three main reasons why this might happen:

  1. The bed bug became dislodged mid-feed. If you interrupt a feeding bed bug – for example, by moving in bed – the bug will latch back on. It will choose another spot, which may be near to the first bite mark. If this happens multiple times, you could end up with three or more bites in a small area.
  2. The bed bug couldn’t find a blood vessel. Occasionally, when a bed bug bites, it will inadvertently choose a spot that does not have clear access to a viable blood vessel. In this case, it will detach and bite in a different place.
  3. You’re being bitten by several bugs. Finally, many bugs – not just one – could be responsible for the bites. If you have an infestation, multiple bugs could bite you in the same area, creating a cluster or line of bites.

While a line or group of bed bug bites is not rare, it’s not necessarily the standard. Singular bites are just as common.

What Kind of Bug Bites in a Line (Other Than Bed Bugs)?

If you’ve found a line of bites on your body, don’t panic. It might not necessarily indicate that you have bed bugs. There are different bugs and parasites that bite humans, so it could be anything.

The first step is to check your home for the telltale signs of bed bugs. Be on the lookout for live bugs, dark spots (bed bug feces) and shed bed bug casings.

If you don’t find any of the above, you may have been bitten by something different altogether. Here are the most common culprits of bites that look like bed bug bites.

Flies

There are many kinds of flies that bite humans. For example:

Fly bites are most common in warmer weather. You’re more at risk of being bitten by flies if you spend time outdoors, or if you don’t have screens covering your windows and doors.

Usually, fly bite marks appear a few minutes after the insect has bitten you, rather than several days in the case of bed bugs. They start off as whitish-red, puffy bumps, and turn into dark red-brown bumps after a day or so.

In general, flies don’t bite in lines. However, the bites may appear in a line as a coincidence, particularly if multiple flies have bitten you in the same area.

Fleas and Lice

If you have a flea or lice infestation, you’ll probably know it. Fleas live in amongst the fur of cats and dogs, though they can bite humans if the opportunity arises. Watch out for your pet scratching and biting itself, as well as dark brown “dirt” in your pet’s fur (flea feces).

Lice, on the other hand, live on human skin. Head lice live on the head, and body lice live amongst the body hair. It’s possible for both lice and fleas to bite in lines or groups.

If you’re being bitten by lice, you’ll be able to see the lice themselves with close examination. They are much smaller than bed bugs.

Scabies

Scabies is a skin infection caused by the scabies mite, which is a kind of arachnid. They are so small that they can’t be seen with the naked eye.

When you become infected with scabies, the mites burrow under your skin. Bed bugs don’t lay eggs underneath the skin. This can leave small, red, intensely itchy bumps that often occur in lines or clusters. You may be able to see the tunnels dug underneath the skin, in some cases.

If you are unsure of the source of your bite marks, visit a dermatologist for an examination. If you still want to be on the safe side, call in an exterminator to check your home, too. You’ll soon find out what’s been eating you.

90,000 What can wind up in the sofa and bite, where insects come from

The most modern, stylish apartment is not protected from insects. Small crawling, flying individuals do not pay attention to the degree of grooming or home design. Penetrating in different ways, they can cause a lot of problems for the owner, especially if they choose a sofa as their habitat. In this article, we propose to find out what can get in upholstered furniture, and also talk about the ways insects enter the apartment.

Where do insects come from in the sofa

Any living creatures seen on your living space are either coming or brought. They do not appear on their own. Therefore, you can not sin on old furniture or excess hair from a pet. On the other hand, a new sofa brought from the warehouse may be contaminated. So, the main ways of appearance of insects in upholstered furniture:

  1. Purchase of an initially infected sofa. This can be either new or used furniture.To protect yourself, be sure to inspect the upholstery, niches, and crevices of the sofa before unloading. If you notice any larvae, black dots, odors that are not specific to furniture, or single bugs – in no case bring such furniture into the house.
  2. Transition of insects from neighbors through communications. Mass infection of a neighboring apartment, single treatment with strong chemical agents, can lead to the migration of individuals to an adjacent room and furniture standing in it.
  3. Infection with new things thrown on the sofa.Any new item (clothing, parcel, wooden souvenir) should not be left on the couch. Before use, you need to conduct a thorough inspection (after all, in postal and other warehouses, there are often bugs, beetles), wash, wash, only then allow for use.
  4. Return home after business trips, hospital hospital. Insects brought on things from public places can quickly spread around the apartment, settle in the sofa. To prevent this from happening, immediately upon arrival, disassemble and wash things at high temperatures.

Why bugs choose upholstered furniture

We found out where insects can come from in a home sofa, but why do they choose upholstered furniture? There are several reasons for this. Firstly, in the crevices, folds of the upholstery, it is easier to hide and build a nest. Second, many pests prefer dry, untreated wood, which is easier to navigate than smooth surfaces. They also settle closer to food. Food, in different situations, is the person himself, or waste products: exfoliated cells, hair.Since the rest mainly takes place on the sofa, there is the most dead epithelium on it.

Some types of insects, for example, bugs, settle in the sofa in order to bite and drink human blood at night. Living in close proximity, they find the victim by smell, crawl out at night, when the person is fast asleep, does not move.

What types of insects can be found in the home sofa

Cozy, beloved upholstered furniture can become a temporary shelter for several species of insects:

  1. Fleas.Small, black, jumping dots that bite painfully. They appear not only in rooms with pets. They can pop into any apartment, be carried on outer clothing, especially if homeless animals often roam the entrance. It is also a common problem for residents of the first floors, fleas breed in the basement, and jump to the nearest dwellings.
  1. Bed bugs. They look a bit like cockroaches, but have a more rounded shape. They hide in the crevices of the sofa, and at night they crawl out to have a snack with human blood.They can be identified by bites on the body, traces of vital activity on bed linen: black dots of excrement, blood spots from individuals crushed in a dream, brown dry scales that are shed by bedbugs during the growth process.
  1. Skin-eating beetles. They don’t bite a person directly, but they can wind up in a sofa that is rarely cleaned. They willingly eat crumbs, particles of dead epithelium of humans and animals, fibers of old fabrics, natural leather upholstery untreated with protective agents.They can get into the apartment through open windows that are not protected by anti-mosquito nets; they can fly into bags and bags on the street. Dangerous for both leather and fabric sofas, because they devour everything.
  1. Linen lice. They can start in a sofa upholstery, which consists of natural fibers, a mattress, bed linen. Lice are invisible during the day, but at night they actively bite sleeping people. Most often, they appear upon contact with infected things, a person. Therefore, you cannot put someone else’s clothes on your home sofa, or put an unfamiliar, unkempt person on it.

Now you know which insect lives in the sofa, which can bite, and which can damage the upholstery. In any case, such a neighborhood is dangerous to human health, having found at least one individual, it is better to immediately sanitize the furniture. Even a new sofa is not a guarantee of the absence of insects, especially if it is an unknown manufacturer. Check any furniture before entering the house, and if you want to be one hundred percent safe, choose sofas on Dommino

Who can bite at night? Recognizing an insect by its bite

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Night bites of insects, parasites that feed on human blood are by no means a rare phenomenon. Pests prefer to become active in the dark and are quite capable of turning a person’s life into a real nightmare.

Of course, it all depends on the type of attacking parasite and the degree of infection of the premises. Often bleeding or itchy blisters are attributed to dermatitis and other skin conditions.It is almost impossible to notice domestic pests during the day – fleas or linen lice, just like bed bugs, prefer to sit quietly at this time. But one has only to go to bed and plunge into sweet dreams, as parasites go hunting. So how to understand: a bug bites at night, or is the problem in a completely different pest?

Specialists of the Sanitary and Epidemiological Station.com recommend:
If itchy bite marks appear on your body during a night’s sleep, you should pay attention to their appearance, shape, localization.Remember that neglected room infestation with parasites is especially dangerous for children, pregnant women, the elderly and allergy sufferers.

Recognize night visitors

Lurking in the folds of bed linen or only visiting the bed for a while at night, the threat may be associated with the attack of one of these pests:

  1. Mosquitoes . They are activated at night in the summer, in the presence of a humid environment in the basement, they can be located in the living quarters of the first floor all year round.Bites can be located on any part of the body.
  2. Fleas . The bites of these pests are localized in the neck, legs, arms, chest.
  3. Bed bugs . Chains of bites are left mainly on the back, arms, buttocks. They attack during the deepest sleep – from 3 to 7 in the morning.
  4. Linen Lice . It is almost impossible to see a pest hiding in the seams of bedding. Bites appear at night, are located in the area of ​​localization of blood vessels (groin, armpits).
  5. Cockroaches . Contrary to common misconceptions, they may well bite. If access to water and food is blocked in an infected room, insects can attack people. Areas near the nose and lips are affected.

What are mosquitoes afraid of?

Having determined who can bite at night in bed, you can proceed to action. If mosquitoes are the source of painful bites in a house or apartment, you can easily solve the problem using a wide range of tools and methods.The most “long-playing” is considered to be the use of ultrasonic electronic scarers. Unlike fumigators, the device can be used throughout the night without affecting human health.

Simpler and more affordable means are no less popular. Fumigation devices can be designed for use with plates or liquids that evaporate from a container. But it is not recommended to leave such a device connected to the network for a long time. In addition, you will have to give up airing at night.

Bedbug as a threat

If a bug bites adults or children at night, characteristic marks remain on the body, which are quite difficult to confuse with any other skin lesions. The track of marks mainly on the back, thighs, buttocks causes severe itching and becomes a source of irritation. In addition, in the course of its life, the pest emits a very specific smell, by which the appearance of bedbugs can also be detected over time.

It is important to understand: it is impossible to get rid of an insect without the use of modern means and technologies for disinsection. The vital features of bedbugs do not imply the possibility of their poisoning through food or water. Blood-sucking insects easily hide under wallpaper, inside furniture, household appliances, they can live in children’s plush toys, upholstered furniture, mattresses. The further the situation goes, the more difficult it will be to completely get rid of the pests. And only professionals have available drugs and technical means that can radically change the situation.

Linen lice: how to fight?

Who can bite at night in bed if the bite marks are localized in the elbows and under the knees, on the neck, under the chest and other hot spots of the human body? Such traces are left by lice, which differ from their counterparts only in that they live and lay eggs not on the body, but directly in the bed itself.It is worth paying attention to the fact that it is almost impossible to recognize the presence of parasites. During the day they are not active. And in the absence of contact with the food source – the human body, insects may well live without food for many months.

Self-control of pests is a serious problem and can be a lot of hassle. Of course, you can get rid of all bedding, spend time boiling the linen, but without complete sanitization of the home, it will be impossible to guarantee that there are no risks of re-infection.

Fleas: Where Do They Come From?

When a bug bites at night, the localization of the wounds on the body clearly enough indicates their belonging. But what if a small rash is localized in various parts of the body? First of all, you need to make sure that small black fleas, which the owners of pets are used to seeing, do not jump on the floor. Contrary to popular belief, they rarely attack humans, preferring creatures with a higher body temperature. But if earth parasites or their other varieties get into the house, painful bites will not be avoided.

It is important to understand that flea control has its own specifics. Insects move fast enough, lead an active nocturnal lifestyle. And to recognize them from the photo, distinguishing them from other species, it is possible only under a magnifying glass. Regular cleaning, if the number of pests is already off scale, will not be enough. We’ll have to use much more intense chemicals.

What if you are bitten by an insect?

Detection of itchy bites on the body requires immediate action.The first thing to remember: sanitization – hydrogen peroxide and other disinfectant solutions will help avoid infection. To prevent the development of allergic reactions, it is worth taking an antihistamine. If an independent study of housing does not provide intelligible information about which insect has become the source of problems, do not hesitate. Employees of the sanitary service “Sanepidemstantsiya.com” will help to identify the lesion, offer modern means of dealing with the source of danger.All work is guaranteed to prevent re-infection of the object.

90,000 Small bugs bite – bites from skinheads

Brown bugs in an apartment are not only a threat to things or products. Despite the fact that kozheedy are not parasites like fleas or bedbugs, they bite people. When a kozheed bites, it does not anesthetize the place of contact, as is done, for example, by bedbugs, so this does not go unnoticed for a person. The bite of the kozheed beetle is felt very clearly and is very unpleasant for almost everyone.Some call it “scorching.” It is as if the damaged area of ​​the skin is abruptly and with “skin tearing” force ignited. It’s pretty frustrating when this happens unexpectedly.

Adult kozheedy beetles bite people unnoticed due to their ability to fly. They can often be confused with a harmless house fly. It should be noted, however, that cases of being bitten by flying beetles are extremely rare, if confirmed at all. Another thing with the larvae, but more on that below.

In the special literature, nowhere is it said that kozheedy beetles bite people.Therefore, many people think that skin beetles cannot bite a person. Like, why would they bite if they can “chew” something, for example, skin or the same fur.

Why doesn’t science study the behavior of kozheedov in apartments? Because these insects are only important as pests of stocks in the agricultural industry.

In recent years, we have often received complaints from customers about the bites of these particular insects.

“It would be a delusion to think that kozheedy do not bite.They bite and quite noticeably. Just not as massively as parasites, but often selectively and singularly. ”

What do skinhead bites look like? Like pink spots, more like flea bites. In some, they turn into bleeding wounds.

Do skin beetle larvae bite?

It should be remembered that only kozheedov larvae are active around the clock. The beetles themselves do not bite at night, since they are active only during the day (some types of kozheedov, exactly the opposite). Therefore, if bed bugs and linen lice are excluded, then the larvae of kozheedov bite.

In almost all confirmed cases, bites were inflicted by larvae rather than adults. After all, they, unlike beetles, basically need food and substrate.

On this score, there is a version that the larvae do not bite at all, and what a person feels like a bite can be a kind of “prick”. It is known that the “furry larvae” have in their entire length something like bristles that protect the surface of the body. There is an opinion that the larvae seem to stick to the person lying on the sofa.And he, perplexed about all this, itches in the morning and is lost in conjecture about what could irritate his skin so much.

There are enough examples of complaints about beetle larvae bites from our practice. Here is one of them:


“I wake up from the fact that my legs itch to the point of impossibility. I sat down mechanically, rubbing my eyes to get up and then I see something: some dark brown furry worms wriggle at the edge of the sofa. ” Mikhail, Novokuznetsk (client’s name has been changed).


The watchman of one warehouse, in which the fumigation was carried out, described his meeting with the kozheedy as follows:


“I don’t know how these worms ended up on my couch, where they came from, creatures of such a brownish hue … I saw one of them on my leg, he seemed to be trying to tear off a piece of my skin right through my socks.At the same time, I didn’t really feel anything, maybe because I managed to pull my leg reflexively ”


It becomes clear that beetles and their larvae are still capable of biting. Often they are found in the upholstery of sofas and really have a worm-like shape, very often shed. The skins shed during molting are sometimes indistinguishable from the larvae themselves.

It should be noted that, in general, attacks of kozheedov are rare, and in order to force them to such behavior, the population size must be initially high, but conditions must change dramatically for its development.For example, moisture has increased, the apartment has become empty due to the lack of furniture or things when moving, or something else. It is worth noting that sometimes such an aggressive reaction is provoked by an unsuitable substrate for pupation of the larva. In general, those same larvae will not just come out on open surfaces, they like dark, hidden and dusty places. If they go out to bite people, something is wrong.

Why does the kozheed beetle bite?

What makes them do this remains a mystery to many.Perhaps the epidermis – the outer layer of human skin – is of no less interest to beetles than all products of animal origin?

Are kozheedy really dangerous to humans?

In addition to the pain of the bite, there is a real risk of suffering a disease after it. At the stage of maturation, the larvae feed on everything, including decomposed organic matter. Therefore, adults are quite often infected with helminths (worm eggs). Quite often, symptoms are: discomfort in general, high fever and weakness of the body, mild nausea, diarrhea, etc.Nothing fatal and goes away as quickly as an episode of mild poisoning with appropriate treatment. However, it is still quite unpleasant that the cause of this can be an insect bite.

Bitten by a beetle: what to do after

If the kozheed bites a person, the bite should be treated in the same way as the bite of any other insect. The bite sites will heal quickly (2-3 days), despite the bothersome itching. An antihistamine bought at a pharmacy and a skin-soothing ointment indicated for use after insect bites will help from it.If you have been bitten by a beetle, what you definitely should not do is comb the bite site, because this will not heal it in any way, but will only aggravate the itching even more. Also, it will not be superfluous to visit a doctor and get tested for infections.

Whether kozheedy bite or not, this does not negate the urgent need to get rid of them. And yet, many are interested in why, despite the fact that in the apartment kozheedy catches the eye, they still do not bother anyone. Obviously because there are not so many of them in the apartment.

To prevent the appearance, as well as to stop further reproduction of skin beetles, you can follow the simple tips outlined here.

Skinned close-up (video)

90,000 ERR review: which insects and arachnids willingly bite and sting in Estonia | Ecology

Some insects are familiar to the inhabitants of Estonia from early childhood and, as a rule, evoke only positive emotions. A striking example of this is the ladybug. A reddish-orange insect from the family of ladybugs, or coccinellids – a seven-spotted ladybug – immediately catches the eye and is usually perceived as the cutest creature.People often take it in their hands to take a picture or see how the insect will take off spectacularly from the finger. But there is also an unexpected twist when a ladybug bites.

The seven-spotted ladybug is able to use its oral apparatus, including for a human bite. Author: Pixabay

Although this small insect is not able to bite through the skin to blood, an unexpected bite can still frighten a person. How is it, such a cute insect, and suddenly bites? The fact is that very many representatives of arthropods, especially those with a gnawing type of mouthparts, are quite capable of using their weapons, including for self-defense purposes.

Ordinary earwig. Formidable in appearance, but does not bite. Author: Melani Marfeld / Pixabay

It also happens that not only the jaw, but also various outgrowths on the body can serve as a means of self-defense. For example, there are such interesting insects as earwigs. At the end of their elongated body, on the last segment of the abdomen, there are processes called forceps. The insect makes great use of them as forceps. They can also be used in self-defense, although often the insect simply scares, demonstrating its formidable weapon.

Spiders: not extremely dangerous in Estonia, but the bite of some can be painful

When defending themselves, not only insects can bite, but also, for example, spiders.

All spiders living in Estonia are predatory “companions” (they lead a predatory lifestyle), and they have appropriate adaptations. Spiders have mouth appendages, chelicerae, and ducts with venom, which they inject into the victim’s body. The poison of the spiders living in Estonia is not fatal for us, but the bite of large spiders with strong enough chelicerae can be painful.The bite of some single species can cause skin redness, swelling and fever. However, there are no spiders living in Estonia whose venom would be extremely dangerous.

The yellow-muffled spider lives in Estonia. Its venom can cause nausea and fever. By Fritz Geller-Grimm / Wikipedia

All of the arthropods in question use their weapons solely for self-defense. Not a single ladybug would dream of climbing on a sleeping person to bite him.

Hematophages: chase and attack

There are such representatives of arthropods that lead a parasitic lifestyle and are hematophages, that is, their diet consists of blood. They chase prey and attack actively.

Some have adapted so effectively to the parasitic lifestyle that they live with their potential victims: bed bugs and lice – with humans, fleas – with dogs.

Fleas, bed bugs and lice prefer to coexist with their prey.Author: collage

Other representatives of arthropod hematophages prefer to live in nature and patiently wait for a meeting with their prey. Among arachnids, these are, of course, ticks.

Ixodid ticks in Estonia

If a person doubts whether a tick is crawling along it, then you can count the limbs: a tick with a flat brownish body has eight limbs. There are various types of ticks in Estonia, of which two species parasitize on humans: the taiga tick and the dog tick.The name of the latter does not mean that it is found only in dogs.

Dog ticks carry diseases such as Lyme disease, encephalitis, Marseilles fever. Author: Erik Karits / Pixabay

It should be understood that ticks do not fall from trees, like pine cones. They await their prey on low plants. According to my personal observations, there are more ticks in 2020 than in the past. This was facilitated by the warm winter.

If ixodid ticks are waiting for their prey, sitting in ambush, on some relatively long blade of grass, trying to catch the approach of the desired object with the help of receptors, then some insects have to actively move in search of their prey.

Mosquitoes and their relatives – midges and biting midges

Everyone knows how shrill the mosquito squeak sounds at night, when an insect flies in the silence of a room over the ear in search of access to blood. There are over 1200 species of mosquitoes in Estonia, but no need to worry – not all representatives of these species feed on blood. There are three families: blood-sucking mosquitoes, midges, and biting midges. They use blood, including human blood.

A female mosquito needs blood to continue its offspring. Author: Pixabay

About 30 species of mosquitoes “drink” human blood.Most of them parasitize on humans in the warm season, but there is an exception, for example, a basement mosquito. Such an insect can be found in nature in warm countries. Once in Estonia, this species has adapted to breed in damp basements, and the cold winter does not bother it. Usually, blood-sucking mosquitoes that breed in the nature of our country are active from spring to late autumn. Among the blood-sucking mosquitoes, as you know, females “drink” blood, they need it for the development of germ cells and laying eggs.

Relatives of mosquitoes include midges and biting midges.

Biting midges are one of the smallest blood-sucking parasites among insects, they are no more than 3 mm in length. These insects begin to fly actively around the time of flowering bird cherry, but become especially annoying by the beginning of July. It is females who consume blood, their bites are painful and cause redness on the skin. There are about 20 species of biting midges in Estonia.

Female biting midge. Author: Wikipedia

Among the bloodsuckers, there are also smaller representatives – midges.The species diversity of midges in our country is also within 20 species. Their saliva causes severe itching.

Deer bloodsuckers, horseflies and basilica calipra

In addition to mosquitoes and their relatives, various flies show interest in blood. One family of insects is called bloodsuckers.

The most famous representative of bloodsuckers in our country is a deer bloodsucker, more often it is called a moose fly. You can meet them in those forests in which moose, deer, roe deer and wild boars live.In dry forests without lush vegetation, which means, without food for moose and deer, these flies are not found. Most often, a fly crawls over its prey without wings. The fact is that when it lands on its food object, it gets rid of its wings forever.

Deer bloodsuckers are confused with ticks, because, once on the body, they shed their wings. Author: Flickr

In addition to deer bloodsuckers and other flies, the well-known gadflies also belong to the suborder of short-tailed beetles. If you tell a child that horsefly is a large fly, with big eyes and a desire to taste blood, this will not be a lie.

The horsefly has really big eyes to see its prey. Although horseflies are good flyers and can easily fly a couple of kilometers, they do not fly far from the reservoir. Horseflies are usually active from late May to mid September. The greatest activity is reached on hot summer days, in cloudy and rainy weather, the activity of horseflies decreases. It is the females that feed on the blood, the males consume plant food.

Houseflies do not bite

Our harmless housefly has a close relative in the family – an autumn flies, about 5-7 mm in length.Some people may think that these houseflies “go crazy” by the fall and begin to bite people, but no. Closer to autumn, it is not houseflies that attack at all, but autumn flies. These insects can attack not only in nature, but also indoors. So the bite of a house fly is a myth.

Autumn flare attacks mainly animals, but it does not disdain people either. Author: Pavel Krok / Wikipedia

In addition to the representatives of the order Diptera, which was discussed earlier, sometimes some representatives of Lepidoptera also present surprises.A harmless butterfly is not associated with vampires, but meanwhile, there are species among lepidopterans that, among other things, include blood in their diet. Although the basil calipra is found in our country, cases of this butterfly attacking a person are very rare, because blood is not the main diet of this insect.

The attack of the caliptra Vasilistnikova on a person is a rarity. By Dumi / Wikipedia 90,000 Insects that cause wild pain in bites

If we talk about the world of insects, then they far outnumber humans.There are approximately 1.5 billion insects for every person on the planet. While this number may make you feel uncomfortable, there is absolutely nothing to be afraid of. Most insects are relatively harmless to humans.

The fear of spiders is one of the most ancient fears known to man. While most spiders are completely harmless, not all insects are created equal. Some spiders are not small, shy, harmless creatures, in addition, there are some types of ants that you definitely won’t want to meet.

These insects are more than frightening – they are deadly. These insects sting differently than bees, and their stings are by no means safe. Meeting one of these terrible ten is more like being in a room with a ticking bomb. If you meet one of these creatures on your way, no one will judge you if you run as fast as you can. It will save your life.

10. African Assassin Bug

Any insect with the word “killer” in its name should immediately make you suspicious.The poison of the African killer bug is ten times more deadly than the venom of the cobra. These insects are small in size, but they do not bite like a child.

While their bodies can even be called pretty with bright yellow dots on their feet, it is best not to approach them.

Even professionals face certain challenges when dealing with these bugs, as they can kill prey that are hundreds of times their size. A zoo worker in California nearly died while cleaning their tank.

9. Japanese Hornet

As many know, if you bump into a hornet hive, you will infuriate the insects. If you bump into or disturb a giant Japanese hornet hive, you will have the impression that you have been stoned. The bite of these Japanese insects kills about 40 people every year. Their poison kills more people than bears or venomous snakes combined, and they are considered the most deadly creature in Japan.

Unlike insects with similar coloration, the giant Japanese hornet can bite many times in a row. This creature will not just leave you, they are not afraid to fight with absolutely any prey, including such predatory insects as praying mantises.
However, when they aim to kill the victim, they also use their powerful jaws to rip the victim’s body to pieces. They then carry the pieces of prey’s flesh to the hive, where they are chewed and fed to the larvae.

The Japanese call this hornet the “tiger hornet”. It’s best not to be seen by this tiger!

8. Siafu Ant

What the Venus flytrap is to flies, Siafu ants are to humans. It is the only insect that deliberately attacks humans and actually devours human flesh. These ants have very powerful jaws and they use venom to subdue their prey.

However, their true strength lies in their numbers.These tiny insects killed several sleeping, drunk people and tourists in particular. However, their death, most likely, came not from poison, but from suffocation after the army of ants crawled into their lungs and other organs.

These ants have several names, but the strength of their bite does not change depending on their species. They are called safari ants or army ants and they are found throughout Africa. According to scientists, even wild animals such as elephants avoid the army of these ants for good reason.

7.Spider Black Widow (Black Widow Spider)

Despite the fact that the venom of this spider is fifteen times more powerful than that of a rattlesnake, their bites do not lead to as many victims as one might think.

When it comes to love, they do not shun any means. These creatures have a notorious reputation for killing and eating their partners. After mating, females usually kill and eat their mates, which earned this species the name “black widow”.

In humans, their bite causes bouts of nausea, muscle aches and breathing problems, as the venom paralyzes the diaphragm. However, this poison can only be fatal to young children or the elderly.

In order to be saved, you do not need to waste a minute. The hourglass mark on this insect’s belly serves as a reminder to call for help right away if you or someone you know has been bitten.

6. Large harpy caterpillar (Puss Caterpillar)

Children’s books such as The Very Hungry Caterpillar convince us that caterpillars are adorable little creatures waiting to become butterflies.However, don’t let this caterpillar’s furry look fool you.

It may look like a fluffy lump, but if you touch it, it will suddenly turn into a porcupine. You should resist the urge to pet this furry creature. This insect hides poisonous needles under its fluffy blond curls. One touch to this creature will be enough for you to have a severe allergic reaction on the skin.

This caterpillar is the most poisonous caterpillar in the United States.Touching it causes bouts of nausea, a sharp drop in blood pressure, rash, vomiting, fever, and a host of other symptoms. These caterpillars live in trees and are most often seen in the fall. They are definitely not the kind of creature you want to meet while walking through the woods.

5. Brazilian Wandering Spider

The Brazilian wandering spider has been named the world’s deadliest spider by the Guinness Book of World Records, several times.This spider is a member of the Phoneutria genus, which literally translates to “killer”.

This spider is homeless and prone to killing. He does not weave a web. Instead, he wanders, hunts down and kills his prey in the process.

It can bite people only in self-defense, but if you have been bitten by this fluffy eight-legged creature in Brazil or any other country in Latin America, you should immediately seek medical help. Symptoms appear within 30 minutes and can be fatal if you don’t get antivenom.

4. Sparrow-Bee (Asian Giant Hornet)

These bee-like insects are truly the giants of the hornet world. Their body length reaches 5 centimeters, and their wingspan can reach 8 centimeters.

In the fall of 2013, these insects made headlines around the world as they killed 41 people in China and injured more than 1600 people.

This insect becomes most venomous during the mating season in autumn and is an aggressive predator.

In the event of a Chinese outbreak, firefighters had to walk the streets and destroy their hives. Special teams of doctors from all over China were taken to hospitals overflowing with bitten people.

3. Bullet Ant

These insects don’t sting – they shoot. The most painful bite in the world belongs to this particular species of ants. Just one bite of this ant causes unbearable pain lasting 12-24 hours.

Entomologist Dr. Justin Schmidt said the following about his encounter with this vicious ant: “Pure, unbearable, sharp pain.It is comparable to walking on burning coals while a 7-centimeter nail is hammered into your heel. ”

And this description was given by a man who was bitten by more than 150 species of ants, and he even received some bites on purpose. He created a soreness table to categorize the bites of these species in an ascending table.

If you don’t want to walk on hot coals or feel like you’ve got a bullet in any part of your body, you shouldn’t be planning a vacation in the South American rain forest.

2. Tsetse Fly

The Tsetse fly has the deadliest bite on the African continent. These flies carry a deadly parasite that affects approximately three million people every year. In Africa itself, this parasite also harms millions of people.

In humans, this parasite causes African trypanosomiasis, which can be fatal if left untreated. Infected people often have incoherent speech, behavioral changes, and sleep problems.They suffer from seizures and cannot walk normally.

Despite the fact that these flies are small in size and carry the microscopic parasite, one bite is enough for an infection to occur. At the moment, there is no vaccine for this parasite, since the parasite carried by the tsetse does not enter the human immune system. It is better not to meet this fly.

1. Sydney Funnel Web Spider

This spider is unique in that its venom acts exclusively on primates.If you are planning to travel to Australia, you should definitely be wary of this spider, which only lives in Sydney.

The venom of this spider is called atracotoxin. When ingested, this poison leads to the explosion of the alveolar sacs in the lungs, overloading the nervous system (and not shutting it off, like most neurotoxins). Basically, this poison causes you to drown on land.

Fortunately, there is a very effective antidote for this poison and according to Australian reports, no human has died from the bite of these spiders in the last thirty years.However, if you are bitten by this spider, you should not postpone calling an ambulance. The doctors estimate that if you don’t get the antidote, you could die in 15 minutes.

Scientists have found out who is most often bitten by mosquitoes

https://ria.ru/20190808/1557303392.html

Scientists have found out who is most often bitten by mosquitoes

Scientists have found out who is most often bitten by mosquitoes – RIA Novosti, 03.03 .2020

Scientists have found out who is most often bitten by mosquitoes

Scientists of the Siberian State Medical University have found out who is most often bitten by mosquitoes.RIA Novosti, 03.03.2020

2019-08-08T15: 00

2019-08-08T15: 00

2020-03-03T15: 23

Russia

Science

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MOSCOW, 8 Aug – RIA Novosti. Scientists from the Siberian State Medical University have found out who is most often bitten by mosquitoes.According to experts, the most attractive “victims” are universal donors, people with blood group I: according to the study, they are bitten twice as often as representatives of group II. In addition, the body temperature, strong odors sweat, and active circulation. And with a high metabolic rate, a person produces more carbon dioxide, by which mosquitoes determine the source of food. “Therefore, the mosquito is most likely to bite an adult, not a child, pregnant women, people with a high body mass index, as well as people who are engaged in manual labor. “, – the publication says.The researchers note that ultrasonic devices are still the most effective mosquito control. Narrow-leaved lavender flower oil and vanilla diluted in water can also be effective to scare off bloodsuckers.

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MOSCOW, 8 Aug – RIA Novosti. Scientists from the Siberian State Medical University have found out who is most often bitten by mosquitoes.

According to experts, the most attractive “victims” are universal donors, people with blood group I: according to the study, they are bitten twice more often than representatives of group II.

June 11, 2019, 08:28

Rospotrebnadzor gave advice on the choice of means of protection against insect bites

In addition, the “taste preferences” of mosquitoes are influenced by body temperature, strong odors, such as sweat, and active blood circulation.And with a high metabolic rate, a person produces more carbon dioxide, which mosquitoes use to determine the source of food.

“Therefore, the mosquito is most likely to bite an adult, not a child, pregnant women, people with a high body mass index, as well as people involved in manual labor,” the publication says.

As the researchers note, ultrasonic devices are still the most effective mosquito control. Narrow-leaved lavender flower oil and vanilla diluted in water can also be effective to scare off bloodsuckers.

22 June 2018, 21:26

After a mosquito bite, a worm has settled under the skin of a Russian woman 90,000 who can be dangerous on a trip

This summer, many of us will travel to Russia – and it will surely be an unforgettable experience.

Arina Prokofieva

biologist

In this case, it would be good to do without seeking emergency medical help.

We have collected dangerous insects that can greatly spoil the experience of the trip.

How to quickly recognize an insect

To find out the name of a bug, download the Google application (iOS / Android), click on the colored square in the search bar and point the camera at the insect.

As a result, the system will recognize the insect and show its name. See how it works:

Bubble beetle

Latin name. Mylabris quadripunctata.

Special signs. Individuals of bright red, yellow and green colors are more common.The body of an adult beetle is large – about the size of the phalanx of the index finger.

Nitters keep on plants singly or in groups of 2-4 individuals. Source: pavelazarov / Instagram

When can I meet. May – August.

Where can you meet. Distributed in the South and North Caucasian districts, in the Krasnodar Territory and South-West Siberia. They inhabit mainly steppe regions and savannas, they can also be found in deserts and semi-deserts.

What is dangerous. A beetle can fall on a person from a tree or collide with him in flight. The beetle’s blood – its scientific name is “hemolymph” – contains the poison cantharidin. Under stress, the bladder releases small amounts of cantharidin.

The poison can damage the skin: a burn in the form of a watery bladder forms at the point of contact. Most often, the hands, neck, face are affected. If there are wounds or scratches on the skin, the burns will be worse.

If the beetle, and with it cantharidin, gets into food, intoxication may develop.During the first 10 minutes after using cantharidin, burning of the lips, mouth and pharynx begins. Sores may form in the mouth and the tongue will swell. Then nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, accompanied by abdominal pain, are added to this.

How to help the victim. A person who accidentally ate a beetle needs to wash out the stomach: drink a few glasses of water and induce vomiting. If cantharidin comes in contact with your skin, disinfect it with chlorhexidine and be careful not to damage the blisters to avoid contamination and dirt.

How not to get hurt. Do not pick up blister beetles, let alone crush with hands and feet: there is a risk of accidentally coming into contact with the poison.

Scolopendra

Latin name. Scolopendra cingulata.

Special signs. Scolopendra is a large brown centipede and is about 12 centimeters long: about the size of a smartphone or the average palm of a person.

As a rule, during the day, centipedes sleep or hide under stones or in cracks, and at night they go out to hunt insects and small lizards

When can be found. April – August.

Where can you meet. On the eastern coast of the Crimean Peninsula.

What is the danger. Scolopendra is especially dangerous in early spring, when its glands are filled with poison. Scolopendra usually avoid meeting a person and bite only if they are picked up. On the pain scale, a bite is equivalent to 10-15 bee stings.

The bites are not only painful, but also provoke general malaise, and the mucus secreted by insects causes burning, itching and irritation of the skin.The bite site swells, the temperature rises sharply to 38-39 degrees, chills and body aches occur. The severity of symptoms depends on the size of the scolopendra and the amount of injected poison, but one bite will not lead to death.

Symptoms last up to two days, then the temperature begins to subside, and the swelling at the site of the bite decreases. Scolopendra bites are the hardest for children and adults with allergies.

How to help the victim. Wash the bite site with soap and water and treat the skin with an alcohol antiseptic or hydrogen peroxide to avoid getting any infections under the skin: there could be dirt particles on the scolopendra’s paws.

You can spread the wound healing ointment on the bite site. If the skin is swollen, apply a cold compress to it. OTC antipyretics such as ibuprofen or paracetamol will help relieve pain and bring down the temperature. If an allergic reaction develops – the bitten area swells a lot and hurts – you need to take an antihistamine.

If the discomfort persists for more than two days, consult a doctor.

How not to get hurt. If you notice a scolopendra on your clothes or body, do not make sudden movements, do not shake it off or try to swat it: this will make it angry.It is necessary to restrain the panic and let the scolopendra leave by itself, or gently push it off yourself with a stick raised from the ground.

Check clothes and shoes carefully before putting on. If you are spending the night outdoors, inspect your backpack, tent, and sleeping bag each time you use it.

Asian giant hornet

Latin name. Vespa mandarinia.

Special signs. May be about half the length of an adult’s index finger.The sting of a giant hornet reaches 6 millimeters. Unlike bees, which leave a sting at the site of the bite, the hornet uses it many times.

Hornets usually use this weapon to attack bee nests to feast on larvae

When Available. May – August.

Where can you meet. In the Primorsky Territory, in the south of the Khabarovsk Territory and in the Jewish Autonomous Region.

What is dangerous. The giant hornet venom contains an extremely toxic substance – mandorotoxin.It is most dangerous for those who are allergic to bee or wasp venom: one bite is enough for a lethal outcome.

Severe pain immediately occurs at the site of the lesion. At the point of contact with the sting, a dense white blister of small size appears. A red spot and swelling quickly spreads around. The most dangerous places for a bite are the tongue or neck area. With laryngeal edema, oxygen access to the respiratory tract is blocked – the victim may suffocate.

And the hornet’s body also contains a pheromone that attracts other individuals and makes them act aggressively towards humans.About twenty hornet bites can kill an adult even without an allergy to poison.

How to help the victim. Rinse the bite site with cold clean water and apply an ice pack or cold water to the skin. This will relieve pain and slow the spread of the poison. If the hornet has stung in the wrist or finger, all rings and bracelets must be removed from the hand: it can be very swollen.

The victim should be given water to drink – this will reduce the concentration of the poison in the blood.

If the victim becomes worse or knows that he is allergic, take him to a doctor immediately or call an ambulance.If breathing stops, you need to start doing artificial respiration and continue until there is a doctor nearby.

How not to get hurt. Stay as far as possible from flowering plants, as wasps and hornets can be found near them. Hornets also often fly for sweets, so do not leave drinks and food open.

The only way to escape an attack from a swarm of hornets is to flee to cover: it can be a tent or a car. As a last resort, dive into any body of water.You need to plunge into the water with your head, holding your breath, and periodically emerge to inhale. When emerging, create more spray to scare off the hornets. After a few minutes, the insects will lose interest in you and fly away.

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Water scorpion

Latin name. Nepidae.

Special signs. Actually, it’s a bug. The water scorpion is so named for its external resemblance to a scorpion: its front limbs are like claws, and behind it is a long tail process. The body of a water scorpion is flat, in shape and color similar to a withered leaf. At the back end there is a breathing tube, which can be mistaken for a sting. In reality, the whole danger lies in the front.

In length, water scorpions reach 2 centimeters. They live in stagnant water, lakes or rivers with a very slow flow of water and a large number of algae and reeds.They lead a rather passive lifestyle, sometimes they go down to the depths to hunt

When can be found. During the swimming season.

Where can you meet. Throughout Russia.

What is dangerous. Very painful for the skin. Noticing its prey, the scorpion with a swift maneuver puts out a front pair of legs, similar to jaws, and grabs prey – a person can play this role. The insect’s legs bend at the joint like a jackknife and can cut the skin until it bleeds.

Scorpio lives along the coast, as coastal plants have insect larvae, tadpoles and fish fry that it feeds on. But sometimes he can sink to a depth greater than human growth. If a scorpion injures a person’s arm or leg while swimming, the limb can cramp – and it will be much more difficult to get to the shore.

What to do if bitten. If you are bitten at depth, shout to get people’s attention. If a cramp appears after the bite, then get out of the water as soon as possible.If it is far from the shore, proceed as follows:

  1. Change the position of the body: if you were swimming on your chest, roll over onto your back, and vice versa. This will reduce the stress on the muscles that are cramping.
  2. If there is a cramp in the hand, quickly and forcefully clench your hand into a fist, pressing it towards you, then swing your hand away from you and unclench your fist. Repeat this action several times until the cramp is gone.
  3. If the shin is bent, try to bend and wrap your hands around the foot, and then pull the toes towards you, straightening the leg.
  4. If your hip is bunched, wrap your hand around your ankle. Then, forcefully pull your leg back toward your back with your hand.
  5. It is more convenient to perform all these manipulations while lying on the water on your back.
  6. When you get out of the water, treat the bite with chlorhexidine and apply cold to relieve pain and swelling.

How not to get hurt. Avoid entering stagnant water overgrown with reeds. Do not swim alone, or at least swim far from the shore.

Red forest ant

Latin name. Formica rufa.

Special signs. 7 to 14 mm long, reddish brown.

Red ants live in anthills of various sizes. They can be found almost anywhere in nature

When can they be found. From the second half of May to mid-September.

Where can you meet. In the north of the Krasnoyarsk Territory and in the temperate forests of Northern Eurasia.

What is dangerous. Ants carry pathogenic bacteria that can cause various diseases in humans, such as typhoid fever or cholera.During the bite, the ant releases a small dose of acid, which is why a red spot forms in this place, sometimes a small blister.

The painful sensations do not exceed the pain from a mosquito bite. Itching and irritation of the skin usually resolves in 3-5 days.

How to help the victim. Treat the bite with alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. To relieve redness and pain, ice wrapped in a cloth can be applied to the skin. In pharmacies, you can buy antihistamine ointment, such as “Fenistil” or its analogues.In case of a severe allergic reaction, when swelling and extensive redness the size of a palm develops around the bite, contact a dermatologist or allergist immediately.

How not to get hurt. Do not leave food or sugary drinks outdoors or in a tent. The ants smell water and sweets and come to dine in large groups.

Check for ants on your feet when walking in the forest or in places where anthills, including underground ones, are found – they look like small holes in sandy soil.Shake insects off of you to prevent them from biting.

Mosquitoes

Latin name. Culicidae.

Special signs. Mosquitoes can look very different, and not always a large size indicates a danger.

Here is a long-legged mosquito, it does not bite humans and animals at all, but the inhabitants are more afraid of it than there are mosquitoes especially in the evening near open reservoirs, because they need water to reproduce.During the day, in sunny weather, they hardly appear.

When can you meet. Late May – early September.

Where can you meet. Throughout Russia.

What is dangerous. Female mosquitoes need protein to reproduce, so they suck the blood of animals and humans. By piercing the skin, the mosquito inserts the proboscis into the blood vessel and secretes saliva. The proteins in its composition cause an immune response in a person, which is manifested by itching and swelling. Combing the skin after a bite, you can introduce an infection into the wound and provoke the development of an abscess.

Mosquitoes also carry parasitic and infectious diseases: malaria, West Nile fever, eastern equine encephalitis, tularemia. They are not often found on the territory of Russia, but such cases do happen.

How to help the victim . To relieve itching, apply a damp cloth or ice wrapped in a cloth to your skin. If discomfort persists, apply Calamine Zinc Oxide Lotion to your skin.

Medical help is needed if swelling develops after a bite, blisters appear.