It’s a common summer annoyance, a tiny pest that buzzes around your head and lands on your food. But what happens if a fly bites you? The answer might surprise you, as the scenario of “What Happens If A Fly Bites You” is often misunderstood.
The Reality of a Fly “Bite”
Contrary to popular belief, most common house flies and similar species don’t actually “bite” in the way a mosquito or an ant does. They lack the piercing mouthparts necessary for puncturing skin and drawing blood. Instead, flies feed by regurgitating digestive enzymes onto solid food, liquefying it, and then absorbing the liquid with their sponging mouthparts. This means that when a fly lands on your skin and you feel a sensation, it’s usually not a bite but rather the fly attempting to feed. For the vast majority of people, the primary concern is not the fly’s mouthparts but the potential transfer of germs.
However, there are a few exceptions and nuances to consider. Certain types of flies, such as stable flies and horse flies, do possess biting mouthparts and can inflict a painful nip. These bites are more common in rural or outdoor settings where these specific species are prevalent. When these flies bite, you can expect:
- A sharp, stinging sensation.
- A small raised bump or welt at the site of the bite.
- Redness and itching, similar to other insect bites.
The potential dangers associated with fly “bites” are primarily linked to hygiene and the transmission of pathogens. Flies are attracted to filth, waste, and decaying matter, making them vectors for a variety of bacteria and viruses. When a fly lands on your skin after visiting these unsanitary locations, it can transfer these microorganisms. The table below outlines some common scenarios:
| Type of Fly | Feeding Behavior | Potential Risk |
|---|---|---|
| House Fly | Sponging mouthparts, regurgitates enzymes | Germ transmission (e.g., E. coli, Salmonella) |
| Stable Fly/Horse Fly | Piercing mouthparts, blood-feeding | Painful bite, potential for localized irritation and germ transmission |
While the chances of a severe reaction from a common house fly landing on your skin are extremely low, it’s always a good practice to wash the area if you’re concerned about hygiene. If you are bitten by a biting fly, like a stable fly, the experience will be more akin to a mosquito bite, with the main issue being discomfort and potential localized inflammation.
To learn more about specific types of flies and their behaviors, please refer to the information provided in the section below.