Bites from sandflies (also known as blackflies) are a familiar nuisance during the warmer months. As with mosquitoes, it's only the females that bite and they use the extra nutrients from blood to produce more eggs.

What happens if you get bitten by a sand fly?

In general, sand fly bites are painful and may cause red bumps and blisters. These bumps and blisters can become infected or cause skin inflammation, or dermatitis. Sand flies transmit diseases to animals and humans, including a parasitic disease called leishmaniasis.

Do sand fly bites itch?

Despite the size, the bites can cause acute discomfort, irritation and severe local reactions. Itching may commence immediately after the bite, but usually begins some hours later. Most individuals are unaware they are being bitten at the time.