The weather is finally starting to heat up in Swindon this weekend, so of course horsefly season is here.
Some people can have bad reactions to horsefly bites so it’s best to stay vigilant as the temperature rises.
For everyone else it's a painful, annoying bite so here is some advice if you are bitten by one.
What is a horsefly?
You cannot miss a horsefly because they are pretty huge. The females bite animals and humans for their blood.
They have razor sharp teeth and you will definitely notice if you are bitten because they are very painful.
What do they look like?
They are large and dark flies around 1 to 2.5cm in size.
They are usually found near cattle, horse stables and woodlands.
Credit: NHS
What happens if I am bitten?
If you are bitten you will probably notice a raised red area of skin around the bite.
You may also experience:
- a larger red, raised rash (called hives or urticaria)
- dizziness
- weakness
- wheezing
- part of your body becoming puffy and swollen
You should wash the bite immediately and add a cold compress.
Do not scratch it, instead take the maximum dosage of antihistamine.
For more information on medicine, you should visit your local pharmacist.
What should I do if the symptoms aren’t going away?
Horsefly bites can take a while to heal and can become infected.
See your GP if you have symptoms of an infection, such as pus or increasing pain, redness and swelling.
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