'No need to panic about Nairobi fly infection'

BY A STAFF REPORTER Kathmandu, July 12: The skin infection, caused by Nairobi fly, has not posed a major threat to public health but it has been hyped with infected people posting pictures on social media. 

According to the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD), the number of people with skin-related problem increases during rainy seasons and the causes may vary. Among the cause of skin infection, Nairobi fly is one.

Nairobi fly infection causes skin problems in the rainy season every year in Terai region, according to Dr. Sabina Bhattarai, a dermatologist.  

“There has been a lot of speculation on social media over the last few weeks that the Nairobi infection has caused a new skin problem,” she said.  “It is not a new fly, it is not a scary and terrible disease,” said Dr. Bhattarai.

Dr. Gokarna Dahal, Section Chief of NTD and Vector Borne Disease Control Section, EDCD, said that while consulting with the doctors of various hospitals, people with skin infection that may be caused due to Nairobi fly have been visiting hospitals. But no any complication and hospitalisation has been reported so far, added Dr. Dahal. 

Cases of Nairobi fly infection have also been reported from districts including Jhapa, Kanchanpur and Kathmandu, said Dr. Dahal adding that there is no major threat in public health. 

Nairobi flies, small, beetle-like insects are orange and black in colour and are usually found in areas with high rainfall and mostly infect children and people with sensitive skin.

Nairobi flies are attracted to bright light and moist areas. It is said these insects kill pests or other insects on farms which is good for humans. According to Dr. Bhattarai, Nairobi flies do not bite or sting. However, if disturbed while sitting on anyone’s body, they release a potent acidic substance.

“The fluid released by the flies can cause unusual burns, dermatitis, on the skin. Pinhead-sized blisters could erupt in 24 to 48 hours filled with a yellowish fluid. But these usually dry out and don’t leave scars,” said Dr. Bhattarai.  

According to Dr. Bhattarai, these flies are not venomous but they release dangerous acid-like compounds when touched. 

In order to stay away from the flies, doctors have suggested to close windows and doors at night, sleep under mosquito nets, gently brush off, if acid is released, wash the area with soap and water and wear full-sleeve clothes.