What Are The Most Common Biting Insects In North Carolina?
As a North Carolina resident there is a high chance you’ve encountered an insect or two. Some aren’t bothered by most pests found throughout the state, however, once they begin to bite, they can bother just about anyone. Biting insects in North Carolina are common and most are not dangerous. Being able to identify the type of biting insects you may encounter is important as it will help you determine the best course of action. If in doubt give CTRL a call today.
Most bugs found throughout North Carolina may bite you, but it leaves nothing more than an itchy red bump or two. Where the real concern lies is with those who may have allergic reactions to the bite itself. Below you will find an explanation of some common North Carolina biting insects and what to do if you find yourself part of their menu.
YES FIRE ANTS BITE HARD
Fire ants get their name from their appearance and their bite. These ants are native to Brazil and have invaded the great state of North Carolina. Fire ants can evoke allergic reactions which can be fatal to children. Their bites are extremely painful, itchy and will appear in groups on the skin. The bites will blister and swell within the first twelve hours. Icing the area will help reduce swelling and manage the pain, however, if you find yourself with breathing issues, vomiting, dizziness and confusion, it’s best to contact your health care professional as it may be an allergic reaction.
MOSQUITOES BITES ITCH & CAN CAUSE DISEASE
Mosquito bites can be itchy but aren’t necessarily dangerous. What makes mosquitoes dangerous is their ability to carry diseases such as West Nile and Zika. The climate of North Carolina serves as the perfect environment for these pests to thrive. You will feel a mosquito bite immediately after it chows down. Oftentimes you may have multiple red, swollen bumps in one area but you can find relief with the use of a hydrocortisone cream. A cold compress can also be used to ease the pain and reduce swelling. If you start to experience any other symptoms, headache, fatigue, or vomiting, have a professional evaluate your symptoms.
NORTH CAROLINA PAPER WASP BITES REALLY HURTS
Paper wasps look like regular wasps and thus are easy to identify. These insects have a reddish-brown to black appearance and tend to be aggressive in the springtime. Although these pests don’t bite, they do sting. Their sting is sharp and emits a burning sensation which is followed by some itching and swelling. These bugs can sting you multiple times, which may result in the stinger being lodged in your skin. Washing the sting site and removing the stinger is important to keep the area from becoming infected. Ice can be used to reduce the swelling and hydrocortisone cream can help with the itch, but medical treatment should take place if you begin having confusion, nausea, or dizziness.
BITING FLIES DONT RUN STAND STILL
Biting or black flies can be found around the waterways of North Carolina. These flies will leave two small puncture wounds on the surface of the skin, leaving a swollen welt behind. The welt can oftentimes swell to the size of a golf ball and may be accompanied by fever, nausea and a headache. If bitten it is best to wash the bite so it doesn’t get infected, and application of ice to the area helps with the pain and swelling. The bites should heal in a couple of days but if it doesn’t, it’s best to consult with your doctor. If you stay still whilst getting bitten it is much easy to dquat the fly and kill it.
AVOIDING GETTING BITTEN IS YOUR BEST OPTION
Fire ants, mosquitoes, paper wasps, and biting flies are some of the four most common biting insects in North Carolina, but it doesn’t mean they are alone. Most of these North Carolina bug bites can be prevented by taking certain precautions. Insect repellant and treating your property can reduce the probability of becoming a snack to these biting insects.
Biting insects are not necessarily a cause for concern, but allergic reactions can be life threatening. Be sure to consult your doctor if a bug bite becomes infected or begins to bring about symptoms like those mentioned above. Take control and contact your local pest control company for more information regarding biting insects and to discuss your treatment and prevention options.
