Are gnats dangerous?
Posted by Mosquito Squad
December 20, 2023
Gnats are a nuisance, but are they dangerous to our health?
If you have ever encountered a group of gnats, you understand the importance of gnat pest control. Because "gnats" is such a generalized term for small, winged insects, we must keep in mind that not all gnats are biters. Female biting gnats, like mosquitoes, require blood to fertilize their eggs. While mosquitoes use an elongated needle-like mouth part, called a proboscis, to penetrate our skin and obtain blood, gnats use jagged teeth to cut through our skin to access our blood. Both the bite from a mosquito and a gnat can result in an itchy welt.
Do gnats pass dangerous diseases?
Gnats can pass conjunctivitis, also known as the dreaded pinkeye. And while pinkeye is highly contagious, it is not typically a dangerous condition. Unlike other blood-seeking pests, gnats are not known to pass diseases through their bites to humans. Though, there are some types of gnat bites that are known to spread infectious diseases to livestock. In any event, a gnat infestation is something that should be dealt with.
Can a gnat bite become dangerous?
Though smaller than mosquitoes, biting gnats can deliver a painful bite. Even so, there is usually no cause for concern. In some cases, gnat bites can cause a bacterial infection if the skin is broken by excessive scratching.
Following a gnat bite, try not to panic. You can apply an anti-itch cream or medicine to the affected area. If you continue to experience pain after doing so, you can put an ice pack on the bite.
If a gnat bite becomes extremely swollen, you can have a doctor check it out. At this point, a doctor may prescribe a special cream or a medicine you can take by mouth to treat the bite. If an infection has developed, a doctor may prescribe an antibiotic, too.
Of course, if you want to avoid a gnat bite, there are many things you can do. It often helps to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when you're outdoors in gnat-infested areas. Also, you can apply an insect repellent that contains 10% to 30% DEET to help keep gnats off your arms, legs, and face.
Is gnat pest control available?
Yes, you can hire Mosquito Squad of Las Cruces for professional gnat pest control for your home or business.
We offer a reliable gnat pest control service. First, our pest control technicians go to your property and look for any damp spots where gnats are present. Next, we make a plan to help you combat your gnat problem.
Our team allocates the time, energy, and resources required to apply our gnat pest control treatment across your property. We track the results of your pest control treatment and ensure it delivers your desired results. On top of that, if you have any gnat pest control questions along the way, we're ready to answer them.
Call on Mosquito Squad for all your gnat pest control needs throughout the Las Cruces area. Fill out our form online or call us at (575) 221-1787 for a free quote.