‘Nairobi fly’ starts to bother with the rainy season, precautions needed

 ‘Nairobi fly’ starts to bother with the rainy season, precautions needed

Nairobi fly infection is increasing in the Terai of Nepal and the northeastern regions of India.

This insect chemical causes serious skin problems.

It has been suggested to keep the house clean and use protective clothing to avoid infection.

With the onset of the rains, skin disease caused by an insect called ‘Pederus beetle’ called Nairobi fly has started to increase in the Terai of Nepal and the northeastern regions of India. Its impact is especially visible in Koshi Pradesh, Madhes, Sudurpaschim of Nepal and some areas of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Assam of India.

Although this insect itself does not appear harmful, the chemical called ‘pederin’ that it releases after settling on human skin causes serious skin problems. Symptoms of infection can range from simple allergies to severe skin irritation, wounds and secondary infections.

What is a Nairobi fly?

The Nairobi fly is a small, reddish-black insect belonging to the genus Pederus. Although originally native to Africa, its presence has increased rapidly in the Nepal-India region due to climate change, human settlement expansion, and regional warming.

The insect is attracted to lights at night, and it often rests on the skin while people are sleeping. When people try to repel or kill the insect, a toxin called pederin is released from its body, causing irritation, blisters, redness, or rashes on the skin.

Symptoms of infection

-Red spots, bumps or streaks on the skin

-Burning, stinging or itching

-Blisters or open wounds

-Eye burning, stinging, swelling if it gets in the eyes

-Sepsis or cellulitis if the infection spreads

Symptoms usually appear at the site of the insect bite and usually heal within 1-2 weeks. However, in most cases, the problem becomes complicated due to scratching or secondary infection.

Who is at risk?

-Those who sleep with windows open at night

-Those who work in fields, forests or gardens

-Those who do not wear long sleeves and protective clothing

-School-going children and the elderly

Current situation in Nepal and India

Recently, various people have shared photos of burning wounds on their skin overnight on social media. Cases of this infection have started to be found in cities including Butwal, Birgunj, Janakpur, Biratnagar, Nepalgunj, Dhangadhi.

In India, local health institutions have warned of Nairobi fly infection in Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh.

How to avoid it?

Nairobi flies can be avoided by taking the following precautions:

1. Do not touch insects - if insects are seen on the skin, blow them away gently, do not kill them.

2. Use hammocks - sleep in hammocks at night.

3. Keep windows and doors closed - especially at night to prevent insects from entering.

4. Wear protective clothing - wear long-sleeved shirts and pants.

5. Reduce outdoor lighting - insects are attracted to light.

6. Maintain a clean environment - keeping the house clean reduces the number of insects.

What to do if you are infected?

If the insect is lodged in the skin,

-Wash the skin immediately with soap and water.

-Apply Vaseline or a simple moisturizer.

-Seek advice from a dermatologist if the burn or wound is severe.

-It is essential to consult a specialist before using any antibiotics or steroids.