By Josie March 22nd, 2023
Nothing ruins a beautiful summer’s day like a horsefly bite – let’s take a look at how to treat them:
A horsefly bite is an annoying and painful bite from a biting fly.
Horsefly bites can be very itchy and painful and may become swollen or infected if not treated properly.
Horseflies are large, blood-sucking insects, usually between ¼ to 1 inch long.
They have long antennae and get nutrition from the blood of animals.
The cause of horsefly bites is simply being in the vicinity of a horsefly when they decide to feed.
Horseflies are attracted to movement, warmth, and sweet scents such as perfumes and lotions.
In addition, they can also detect carbon dioxide.
The most common symptom is a sharp and sudden pain at the site of the bite.
The area may become swollen, red, and itchy.
In extreme cases, horses or humans bitten may also suffer from fever, headache, congestion, or other severe reactions.
- Rinse the area with warm water.
- Apply an antiseptic cream or ointment to the bite.
- Take an over-the-counter antihistamine.
Consult a physician for prescription medication such as antibiotics if an infection develops.
Steroid injections may be prescribed if there is excessive swelling or inflammation around the wound site.
Baking soda neutralizes any acid present in the venom and helps soothe irritation.
An apple cider vinegar soak or a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution can also relieve the itch
#1 Wear clothing that covers as much of your skin as possible.
#2 Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.
#3 Avoid wearing heavily scented lotions or perfumes.