Nobody likes insect bites. They can burn, sting, itch, and swell. Depending on the person and the specific insect that bit them, bug bites can even be deadly. 

If you live in Indiana or are planning on visiting anytime soon, it’s good to know which insects might pose a threat. It will help you plan on how to prevent bug bites as well. 

Biting Insects Found in Indiana

  1. Brown Recluse Spider

You’ll most likely find this spider in dry, quiet areas such as woodpiles, basements, and unused closets. Getting bitten is rare and typically causes light pain and swelling. 

  1. Black Widow Spider

We usually label this spider as extremely dangerous. However, most people bitten by a Black Widow notice no effects at all, and at the most, they experience temporary and mild pain. Keep in mind, though, that its secretions can be very harmful to animals and humans. 

  1. Yellowjackets

While they don’t bite, they do sting. Yellowjacket venom is much more potent than honey bees and can be dangerous, especially if a person is stung multiple times. 

  1. Red Velvet Ant

We call it an ant, but it’s technically a wasp without wings. Its sting is excruciating, and it is even referred to as “the cow killer” by some who claim the stings can take down cattle. 

  1. Assassin Bugs

The venom released by the stinger can have a severe effect on humans. It can even cause tissue necrosis. For the most part, these bugs will leave you alone unless they feel threatened. 

  1. Deer Tick

It’s no secret that Deer Ticks carry Lymes disease. Tens of thousands of people are diagnosed with Lymes disease each year, and most of them got it from a Deer Tick. Joint pain and chronic exhaustion can last up to six months and can resurface years later. 

  1. Mosquitos 

Most of us know the annoying itching and, at times, swelling that a mosquito bite can cause. But despite the discomfort, mosquito bites can be quite dangerous. They are known to carry Malaria, West Nile Virus, Dengue, Zika Virus, and Yellow Fever. Of course, it’s unlikely your Indianan mosquito is carrying any of these diseases, but it’s still a good idea to be cautious. 

Insect Bite Prevention and Treatments

Preventing insect bites before they happen is the best bet. Try the following tips to ward off any biting insects.

  • Wear protective clothing
  • Use bug spray with DEET 
  • Sleep with a mosquito net or install screens on your doors and windows
  • Pay attention to local outbreaks of insect spread disease

If you do get bit or stung, in most cases, it is not a medical emergency. However, there are a few ways you can diminish the pain that comes with an insect bite. 

  • Apply a cold compress 
  • Use baking soda paste, calamine lotion, or hydrocortisone cream
  • Take an antihistamine 

Protect Your Home From Biting Insects

Our homes could host any one of these biting insects. It is crucial to get professional help to remove these pests from your property and prevent them from returning. The pros at YES Pest Control can help. Give us a call today!