Rising cases of Nairobi flies in Nepal

 After the Pandemic of corona and the havoc caused by monkeypox. Nepal now faces a new epidemic of Nairobi fly. It is an insect that is black and reddish brown in color and is also known as Kenyan flies. However the cases of Nairobi fly is increasing in Nepal. The sources have mentioned that the insect took off in huge numbers from India to eastern Terai of Nepal including many other hilly places and has already infected more than 100+ people in Nepal. Although the insect does not seem to bite or sting, it releases a toxic acid called “Pederin”. 

Which causes skin irritations allergies, bumps, burns, etc. When the insect leaves its toxic acid on the skin, blisters may appear in 1 to 2 days which can be treated if one goes for a check-up on time. If not it may lead to serious conditions and symptoms like vomiting, nerve pain, and fever may take place and if the toxins come in contact with One’s eyes it may cause temporary blindness. Nevertheless, it can be treated by applying preventive measures Such as using nets while sleeping. Wearing full sleeved clothes which cover arm and legs properly to avoid physical contact with the insects. Washing hands properly. Avoid staying near a bright light. Cleaning and properly washing the area that came in contact with the insect with soap and water. Avoid crushing the fly in the skin as it contains toxic acids which can cause skin irritation, swelling, and rashes. As they say “prevention is better than cure”. Some of the measures can be previously applied to stay safe.

-Prakriti Ghimire