Cairo: The invasion of desert flies in Egypt has sparked debate over how to handle the insects and the health risks they pose.
The flies have been carried by Khamsin winds – dry, sand-laden winds from the southern Sudanese deserts – and have been observed in Marsa Matrouh. Meteorologists have warned the public to keep their windows closed.
Ali Qutb, a climate professor at Zagazig University and former vice president of the Egyptian Meteorological Authority, told Arab News: “Egypt’s geographical position and climate make it particularly vulnerable to these flies. The desert fly problem peaks during the summer and is exacerbated by the harsh spring winds, which carry sand from the desert, allowing these flies to spread from their natural desert habitats into populated areas. .
He said: “These flies thrive in tropical and subtropical regions and have been documented throughout Saudi Arabia. They prefer desert and rural environments, often attacking nomadic communities (and) especially children in large numbers.
“The primary reasons for their spread include high temperatures, which facilitate their rapid reproduction, along with inadequate health monitoring and ineffective pest control programs. Controlling desert flies includes removing breeding sites such as litter and organic debris, using fly traps, and using insecticides in affected areas.
Ali Younis, a professor of entomology at Cairo University, said the desert fly was similar to a common house fly, about 3.5 mm–6.5 mm in length and varying in color from black and brown to blue.
He said: “These flies rarely enter buildings; They prefer light areas than dark and can tolerate high temperatures. They usually accumulate around the eyes and wounds, where they can cause intense irritation.
Highlighting the potential threats, Younis said: “Desert flies can spread a variety of diseases to humans, including viral diseases such as spinal meningitis, bacterial infections such as anthrax, cholera and typhoid, and protozoal diseases such as amoebiasis and tapeworm. “Their bites are not only painful but can also cause severe itching.”
He said there are several effective preventative measures: “Using incense is a popular method to ward off desert flies, as is a mixture of vinegar and soap. It may help to mix a quarter cup of vinegar and a quarter cup of liquid soap in a deep bowl on the surface to be cleaned and leave it for a long time.
“Additionally, herbs such as basil and wild mint are effective in repelling these flies from homes, and spraying outdoor areas with hot pepper and water may also be beneficial.”
The meteorological authority has issued a warning about the desert fly invasion, advising citizens to keep doors and windows securely closed and to use mosquito nets when sleeping. Other precautions include maintaining personal hygiene and keeping homes clean, removing sources of standing water and using insect repellent when going out.