What are the Nairobi flies causing skin disease in Sikkim
The Nairobi fly, also known as the Kenian fly or Dragon Bug, is a small beetle-like insect that belongs to the two genera of Pedraseximius and Pedrassabais.
Officials said Tuesday (June 5) that about 100 students at the Technical University in eastern Sikim reportedly developed a skin infection after being exposed to Nairobi flies.
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The population of Nairobi flies native to East Africa is growing rapidly on the grounds of the Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology, officials said. Health officials say flies may overtake new areas in search of breeding grounds and food supplies.
University officials said the infected students were given medication and recovered. Recent infections required hand surgery.
The Nairobi fly, also known as the Kenian fly or Dragon Bug, is a small beetle-like insect that belongs to the two genera of Pedraseximius and Pedrassabais. They are orange and black and thrive in high rainfall areas, as seen in Sikim in recent weeks.
Like most insects, beetles are attracted to bright light.
How are people affected by them?
They usually attack grain-eating insects and are beneficial to humans, but they can also cause damage in direct contact with humans. Health officials say that flies do not chew, but when they sit on someone’s skin and get frustrated, they release a strongly acidic substance that causes burns.
This substance, called pedelin, causes irritation when in contact with the skin and can cause lesions, abnormal spots and pigmentation. The skin begins to heal after a week or two, but some secondary infections can occur, especially if the victim scratches the inflamed skin.
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Is there an outbreak of this disease?
Massive outbreaks are occurring in Kenya and other parts of East Africa. The unusual heavy rains of 1998 brought a large number of insects to the area, Associated Press reported.
Outside of Africa, the virus has previously been reported in India, Japan, Israel and Paraguay.
Sleeping under a mosquito book is useful. If a fly lands on a human, it should be gently brushed to reduce the chance of leaving Padang by being disturbed or touched.
Wash the area where the flies are sitting with soap and water. If they contract and release toxic liquids to the skin, care must be taken to avoid unwashed hands from touching other parts of the body, especially the eyes.
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What are the Nairobi flies causing skin disease in Sikkim
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(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by News East India staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
