Prepare to be officially freaked out by Mother Nature
Biting Flies
Flies are one of the most annoying insects of summer. Keeping doors and windows shut and cleaning often around the house can prevent an infestation, certain flies do more than buzz in our faces. Biting flies, such as horseflies, black flies and sand flies, also cause pain and possible illness. In fact, mosquitos are a type of biting fly (who knew?) and, like mosquitos, these blood-thirsty insects can also transmit disease. Wearing long clothing when outdoors is a good way to prevent a painful bite.
Black Widows
They're only the most venomous spider in North America, and they're just about everywhere in the continental U.S. The good news is we're all pretty safe, given that no one has actually died from a black widow bite in the U.S. in over a decade. While the bites hurt and can make us extremely ill, they're not likely to kill a healthy adult. Small children and elderly patients may have a more severe response to their venom and need to be treated by a doctor immediately.
Brown Recluse
Many people don't feel the bite of a brown recluse until it's over. A few hours later, the real symptoms kick in and include burning, itching, redness and even blisters. If left untreated, the bite could turn into an ulcer that continues to grow, requiring treatment by a doctor. Young children could have more serious, life-threatening symptoms. These spiders love warm climates and hang out in places rarely disturbed by humans. They don't like to bite, so you're pretty safe as long as you don't disturb them.
Centipedes
These sometimes large, fast-moving, nocturnal arthropods aren't just terrifying to look at, they pack a nasty, venom-laced bite. Since kids might confuse centipedes with their much smaller and less evil cousins, millipedes, it's important they know not to pick up or otherwise touch either, even if they seem harmless. While their venom is not dangerous to humans, it does hurt. PS: These creepers are really hard to smash thanks to their super-strong exoskeleton.
Fire Ants
They're called fire ants for a reason. The toxic bite comes with a tiny dose of venom that can cause pain, itching, swelling and, for some who are allergic, anaphylaxis. Typically the fire ants attack in groups as a defense mechanism, so it's rare to get just one fire ant bite. For most people, the bites will hurt for a short while before turning into itchy, small pimples. Small children and pets need to be kept away from fire ant mounds as the bites can be more intense for them.
Hornets and Wasps
If you see a papery hornet's or wasp's nest nearby, leave it alone. Unlike bees, hornets and wasps can sting repeatedly and don't die from doing so. Plus, their sting comes with a potent dose of venom, making it hurt even more. These territorial insects shouldn't be allowed to take up residence near you, so call an exterminator if spotted.
