What are the best ways to prevent and/or relieve sand fly bites?

Following on from the mosquito repellent question, I would like to ask about another insect which for me is much harder to deal with, sand flies.

Answering a recent question about Honduras brought back vivid memories of being forced to leave a Garifuna village due to our inability to prevent sand flies from attacking us, or to make it bearable in any way. Anything we had with us for dealing with mosquitoes seemed to be useless.

So what does work to keep sand flies away, is it DEET or does something work better for these critters? And if you do get bitten what should you do?

I'm also specifically interested in home remedies. If you didn't pack some modern western chemical and find yourself under siege in a remote location what kind of things do poor local people use to prevent or relieve sand fly bites?

health insects

Best Answer

Hot tip - according to a Kathmandu staff member, blue tents/sleeping bags sales are 20% of those of other colours. This due to the common theory that sand flies are attracted to blue. I can't back it up with a scientific paper, but that's enough convincing for me.

In addition, some of the answers in the question about mosquitoes may be of related interest too.

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What stops sand flies from biting?

Cover Your Skin: The easiest way to prevent bites is to cover up exposed skin. Trade in your tank tops and shorts for some lightweight long sleeves and pants. Baby Oil: Generous applications of baby oil can help reduce sandfly bites. Mix a bit with Dettol (or another soap/disinfectant) and a few drops of lavender oil.

How do you prevent sand flea bites?

Tips for Preventing Sand Flea Bites

Wear DEET insect repellent and reapply regularly throughout the day, especially on high-target areas like feet and ankles.

Avoid the beach in the early morning, at dusk, or when there is cloud cover and the beach is cooler, since that's when sand fleas tend to come out the most.

How to Treat Sand Flea Bites | The Guardians Choice

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