Cicada Eggs Come with an Itchy Pest
Oak leaf itch mites are tiny arachnids invisible to the naked eye and are a food source for cicada eggs
Cicadas come with an itchy pest - tiny mites that can cause rashes. This year's cicada emergence was a double whammy of insects, with two groups of periodical cicada broods emerging.
After the cicadas emerged, oak leaf itch mites, who feed on their nests, could now be the cause of itchy rashes on humans. The oak itch mites are much worse this year because of all the cicadas and their eggs.
It takes 6 to 10 weeks for those eggs to hatch, so the problem is expected to get worse before it gets better.
What to know and how to watch live
According to cicada expert Dr. Joseph S. Elkinton of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, a particular mite known as the oak leaf itch mite can be seen in large amounts this year.
The mites are so small that they are invisible to the naked eye. They feed on the eggs of cicadas, and when the cicadas hatch, the mites transfer to the nymphs. The nymphs then carry the mites to their new homes in the trees.
The mites can cause an itchy rash on humans. The rash is typically red and bumpy, and it can be very uncomfortable. In some cases, the rash can also be accompanied by swelling and blisters.
There are a few things you can do to avoid getting an oak leaf itch mite rash. First, try to avoid contact with cicadas and their nests. If you do come into contact with cicadas, wash your skin thoroughly with soap and water.
You can also wear long sleeves and pants when you are outdoors. This will help to protect your skin from the mites.
If you do get an oak leaf itch mite rash, there are a few things you can do to relieve the symptoms. First, try taking a cool bath or shower. You can also apply a calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream to the rash.
If the rash is severe, you may need to see a doctor. The doctor may prescribe a stronger medication to help relieve the symptoms.
Komentar