We all want to enjoy our days relaxing at the beach. It always feels like those pesky little bugs are pestering us when we’re trying to enjoy ourselves under the sun. As if there weren’t enough reasons to apply bug spray this summer, here’s another. The Sandfly.
The Sandfly, or Sand flea, usually breeds in damp areas close to a large water sources. Are you thinking what I am? Yes, the ocean! Sand flies are popular on some beaches in the United States, including beaches in Florida and California. You are unlikely to find sand flies that bite away from the beach. Sand flies are difficult to see because they are whitish or translucent in color, they are incredibly small and bury themselves in the sand. Be sure to pack bug spray with you when you go to the beach, and try to remain as clothed as possible.
Counter-top repellents with high concentration of DEET or Picaridin are proven to work, but may not be suitable to some people (e.g. people with sensitive skin and pregnant women.) Some alternative substances that could be of use are:
- Orange Peel
- Any citrus juice
- Eucalyptus oil
- Coconut oil
- Avocado oil mixed with Dettol
- Baby oil mixed with Dettol
- Chinese herbal oil
- Essential lavender oil
- Tea tree oil
- Listerine
- Tiger Balm
- Eucalipto
- Vicks VapoRub
- Vinegar
- Marmite, Promite, Vegemite – anything with high Vitamin B content
Among the viruses that sandflies can carry are Chandipura virus, which as a cousin of rabies, is very deadly. Sandfly bites may leave large, red itchy bumps that may turn into a rash. These bumps are frequently several times as itchy as mosquito bites, and tend to last longer as well. There are a number of remedies for sandfly bites. Below are some of them.
Pharmaceutical remedies:
- Calamine lotion
- Ibuprofen Gel
- Hydrocortisone cream 1%
- Xylocaine gel 2%
- Antihistamine
- Avon ‘Skin So Soft’
- Tea tree oil
- Essential lavender oil
Home remedies:
- Baking soda with water
- Vinegar
- Aloe vera
- Toothpaste
- Onion