Horsefly bite treatment involves reducing pain from the wound and avoiding infection.
When the horsefly bites, its “saw-like” jaws slice through the skin, Dr James Logan told the Express.co.uk in a gruesome interview.
“Horseflies are particularly nasty,” said the Head of Department of Disease Control at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
“You’ll know at the time if you’re bitten by a horsefly,” he continued. “You’ll see it and if you squish the bug it won’t die.”
Horseflies grow as large as an inch in the UK, and can have a wing span of 2.4 inches, making them one of the countries larger insects.
They bite to try and get some blood, their main source of food.
Dr Logan recommended five ways to treat a horsefly bite after it has occurred.
Avoid infection
“Keeping the wound clean” will help avoid any problems and maintain good hygiene, said Dr Logan.
He also recommended using soapy water to keep the injury clear of harmful bacteria.
“Horseflies spend time in dirty farmyards,” the expert continued, “Which means they could introduce bacteria to your wound that could cause an infection”.
No scratching
The horsefly bite may feel very itchy following a bite, but the trick is not to scratch it said Dr Logan.
This could result in a life-long scar if it is itched too much.
Use anti-inflammatory creams
Applying substances with “anti-inflammatory” and “anti-histamine” components could help reduce pain from a bite, Dr Logan advised.
“Use these products available from a GP or pharmacist to help relieve the symptoms,” he continued.
The creams treat the body’s immune response, rather than the bite itself, reducing swelling and discomfort.
Use a cold compress
Another way to reduce bite swelling is to put a cold compress on the affected area.
“This’ll keep the swelling down,” said Dr Logan.
These can be made at home by simply wrapping a bag of ice in a towel and holding over affected area.
Respond fast to infections
As their name suggests, horseflies spend time on other animals. When they bite humans, this can result in the transfer of bacteria and a resultant infection.
A bite which isn’t healing properly will become red, inflamed and sore, said Dr Logan.
There will also be a rash around the area and the veins around the impacted area may start to change colour.
Seek immediate medical attention if the bite becomes infected.
The NHS also recommended three ways to treat horsefly bites.
Anthisan Bite & Sting Cream can help treat bites and stings. It is available in most pharmacies for around £3.99 (www.anthisan.co.uk).