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Swarms Of Bloodsucking Flies That Leave Huge Blisters Set To Cause Havoc

Swarms Of Bloodsucking Flies That Leave Huge Blisters Set To Cause Havoc

The Blandford fly can leave people seriously ill, with blisters, a temperature and swelling around the groin and they're set for the UK.

Rebecca Shepherd

Rebecca Shepherd

Better dig that good ol' fly swatter out, we're in for an infestation of bloodsucking bugs that can cause blisters and love the heat. Which means apparently we're set for some, if you're a glass half full kind of person.

The flies, which can leave people with huge blisters and a fever from one single bite, are set to strike in the south of England, according to the Mirror.

The Blandford fly, known as one of the UK's most irritating pests, thrives in warm weather and is most common in May and June.

Their victims can end up seriously ill and they usually target the ankles and legs while flying low to the ground. Time to dig those wellies out, sweltering heat or not.

The fly tends to strike in warmer weather - meaning that the recent rise in temperatures could create perfect conditions for the Blandford bloodsucker - we are aware this sounds like a serial killer documentary. But, it's fabulous news, isn't it?

Some of the most serious reactions include swelling in the groin, a fever and blistering.

via GIPHY

The Blandford fly is a two to three millimetre black fly which lives near areas of water. So tiny and dangerous, put your hand up if you can't wait.

The warnings come from Public Health experts after cases were reported in Herefordshire earlier this month, reports the Express.

Karen Wright, director of Public Health for Herefordshire, said that as the weather starts to get warmer it's likely there will be more cases of Blandford fly bites.

She said: "We encourage people to take precautions if they're out and about on rivers and streams, especially over the forthcoming bank holiday weekend.

"If you do get bitten, it can often feel very uncomfortable with swelling, blistering, joint pain and sometimes high temperature."

PA

NHS Herefordshire recommends people should cover up (in this weather, great idea) and use insect repellent when out and about near affected rivers and streams.

Karen Wright added: "There's normally no need to visit a GP. For the majority of people, the symptoms will only last a few days before clearing up." She sure knows how to cheer us up.

The pesky little flies got their name after an outbreak of residents were bitten around Blandford, Dorset, in the 1960s and 1970s. Now fast forward to 2018 and they're at it again.

In just a four week period during 1972, around 600 people were estimated to have visited their doctors in Blandford to be treated for insect bites.

Better get the GP on speed dial now then. Joking, obviously. Hopefully.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: Warning, Interesting, Community, UK, NHS