SPOKANE, Wash. — Summer means time by the water — and an increased risk of a black fly bite.
Although black flies do not spread disease, a bite can cause irritation and bleeding.
Black flies are often found near running rivers and streams. They are most active on cloudy, humid days with low wind.
Water and warm temperatures allow the flies to thrive.
The Spokane Regional Health District advises residents to take simple steps to avoid getting bites:
- Stay away from areas where black flies are active, especially at dusk and dawn
- Wear light-colored long pants and long sleeves, especially whites and tans.
- Consider using insect repellent.
If a black fly bites you, apply topical products and avoid scratching the bite to reduce the chances of an infection.
The flies often attack around the eyes, ears, scalp and exposed arms and legs.
Black flies bite both humans and animals.
In years past, the health district has also received several calls and concerns due to bleeding caused by black fly bites.
"We have a lot of questions about why is my child bleeding, is it dangerous? It's not dangerous, black flies don't spread disease, it's just the nature of how they get blood," said SRHD spokesperson Kim Papich.
For more information on black flies, visit the Spokane Regional Health District website.
