Black flies are small insects closely related to mosquitoes that bite and suck the blood of livestock and humans.
The bites can be painful and long-lasting.
They are found in most of the United States but are more common in the upper Midwest and Northeast.
by Felix Schmidt / Getty Images
by Felix Schmidt / Getty Images
What Do Black Fly Bites Look Like?
You may be able to see the hole where it punctured your skin to feed on blood.
Only the females bite.You may not feel it initially because the flies inject a numbing substance into your skin.
Black flies often attack your head or face but can bite you anywhere.
The bites can become painful and itchy and may swell or lead to blisters.
Still, symptoms can include:
Black fly bite symptoms can last for many days.
Late complications of black fly bites include persistent eruptions that can last from three to 16 months.
In very rare cases, many bites at one time could be life-threatening.
If you have any trouble breathing or feel faint after being bitten by black flies, seek emergency treatment.
A Word From Verywell
In rare cases, black fly bites can cause extreme hypersensitivity reactions.
This may include severe cellulitis, and in rare instances, complications such as Guillain-Barre syndrome and nephrotic syndrome.
They may fly around your head, into your eyes or ears, or get in your hair.
Consider using insect repellent, though the insects will fly around your eyes, face, and hair.
A head net may be useful in areas with swarms.
Treat bites with topical anti-itch and pain spray or a cold compress.
Contact your healthcare provider if you feel faint or see signs of infection.
University of Florida.Featured creatures.
Metropolitan Mosquito Control District.Biting gnat/black fly control.
National Park Service.What’s biting you?
Illinois Department of Public Health.Prevention and control, biting flies.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Tips to prevent and treat bug bites.
