It’s that time of year again #Herefordshire! Live or exercise near a water source? Then you’ll know all about these itchy little blighters.
Fownhope Surgery have put together a bit of helpful info to keep us safe during BF season.
Blandford Fly bites are most common during May and June. They usually occur on the ankles/legs and can be very painful. They may produce a severe, localised reaction around the area of the bite.
Advice for prevention is to cover your ankles and legs when outside and use insect repellent.
If you get bitten:
- Clean the bite area and dry gently.
- Do not scratch, this could lead to infection.
- Apply cold compress or calamine lotion.
- Hydrocortisone cream may reduce inflammation.
- Antihistamine tablets can help if taken promptly.
- Antihistamine creams are not recommended as they themselves can cause skin reactions.
- Cover large blisters with a dry dressing.
- If bites are on the lower limbs there may be swelling of the ankles and feet for several days – do not worry about this – just rest with the feet supported on a stool whenever possible.
Complications requiring medical advice:
- Discomfort / swelling or red lines appearing in the groin area or armpit.
- Fever.
- Spreading redness/hotness around the bite lasting longer than 3 days.
