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Have you been swarmed by biting flies? Why they're 'no joke'
Chicago Sun-Times • • health
Key Points:
- Chicago area residents from Rogers Park to Calumet Park are experiencing a surge in biting flies, with many reporting painful bites and swarms in parks and beaches.
- The recent increase is likely due to very wet and hot weather, which creates ideal breeding conditions for flies such as stable flies, known for their sharp, painful bites and tendency to attack ankles.
- Stable flies, which feed on decaying vegetation near shorelines, are the probable cause of the outbreak; they do not transmit disease but are highly irritating and peak in late summer and early fall.
- Local authorities have mixed responses: Chicago Park District reports no significant complaints or drop in park usage, while Lake Forest Parks treated a beach for flies, and Indiana Dunes National Park issued warnings about outbreaks.
- Most insect repellents are ineffective against stable flies; experts recommend wearing long pants and socks, using permethrin-treated clothing, and contacting wildlife rehabilitators if fly strikes on animals are observed; the fly season typically lasts through September or October.
