{
  "id": 17066,
  "title": "Not all itchy bites are from mosquitoes: How to tell if a sandfly got you instead",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/02/not-all-itchy-bites-are-from-mosquitoes-how-to-tell-if-a-sandfly-got",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-02T00:47:33.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Channel News Asia",
    "slug": "channel-news-asia",
    "url": "https://www.channelnewsasia.com/wellness/sandfly-bites-vs-mosquito-bites-6267326"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Travellers returning from sandy shores where sandflies are present may encounter itchy bites, rather than mosquito bites. Sandflies are small, approximately 2mm to 3mm in length, and are most active during early morning and evening, especially when winds are calm. They are often confused with mosquitoes due to their similar appearance, but can be identified by their humpbacked profile and hairy wings held in a V shape when at rest. Sandflies are known to carry diseases, with leishmaniasis being the primary concern in Asia, transmitted by the phlebotomus papatasi species. Leishmaniasis can cause skin ulcers and, in severe cases, affect internal organs. Another illness caused by sandflies is sandfly fever, a viral infection presenting with fever, headache, and body aches. Although these conditions are not endemic in Singapore, a 2025 study confirmed the presence of phlebotomine sandflies in the country. Sandflies are pool feeders, causing greater skin irritation and triggering a more pronounced immune response, resulting in more intense itching compared to mosquito bites. The bites typically appear as small, red, intensely itchy bumps in clusters, which can resemble mosquito, flea, or bed bug bites. Treatment options for sandfly bites include washing the affected area with soap and water, applying a cold compress, and using over-the-counter treatments such as oral antihistamines and topical steroids. It is crucial to avoid scratching, as it can worsen inflammation, slow healing, and potentially lead to secondary bacterial infections.",
  "summary": "Those tiny, intensely itchy bites after a trip to the beach or a coastal park may not be from mosquitoes. Here's how to tell if a sandfly is the culprit, why its bites can itch more, what treatments help, and when you should see a doctor.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}