Acid Fly: Over 100 students of North Bengal Univ infected

MP | 6 July 2022 | Darjeeling: On the heels of Sikkim, Darjeeling district too is in the grip of panic owing to widespread infections caused by Nairobi flies also known as acid flies. 

A large number of students, mainly hostellers of the North Bengal University (NBU) in Siliguri, have been infected by this species of rove beetle. More than 100 students and researchers of North Bengal University have been reported to have fallen sick from Acid fly infection. Since the past two weeks number of infections is steadily on the rise. Many have left the hostels and gone home. 

"We had never witnessed anything like this before. Most of the students are infected. With examinations round the corner we are very worried," stated Sourav Roy, a student. 

Professor Subash Chandra Roy, Dean, Faculty of Science, NBU stated that the authorities are keeping a close tab on the situation. 

Prior to this a large number of students (crossing the 100-mark) of the Sikkim Manipal Institute to Technology (SMIT), in Majitar, East Sikkim were infected from Acid flies. 

"Some instances of sightings of this insect have been reported in our district. We are spreading awareness on this issue," stated S Ponnambalam, District Magistrate, Darjeeling. 

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Nairobi flies, also called Kenyan flies or dragon bugs, are small, beetle-like insects that belong to two species, Paederus eximius and Paederus sabaeus. They are orange and black in colour, and thrive in areas with high rainfall, as has been witnessed in Sikkim in the past few weeks. Like most insects, the beetles are attracted by bright light.

How are humans affected by them?
Usually, the insects attack pests that consume crops and are beneficial for humans — but at times, they come in contact with humans directly are cause harm. Health officials say these flies do not bite, but if disturbed while sitting on anyone’s skin, they release a potent acidic substance that causes burns.
This substance is called pederin, and can cause irritation if it comes in contact with the skin, leading to lesions or unusual marks or colouring on the skin. The skin begins to heal in a week or two, but some secondary infections can occur, especially if the victim scratches the irritated skin.

Have there been outbreaks of the disease?
Major outbreaks have happened in Kenya and other parts of eastern Africa. In 1998, unusually heavy rain caused a large number of insects to come into the region, reported the Associated Press.
Outside Africa, outbreaks have happened in India, Japan, Israel, and Paraguay in the past.

What is the way to protect oneself against Nairobi flies?
Sleeping under mosquito nets can help. If a fly lands on a person, it should be gently brushed off, and should not be disturbed or touched to reduce the chances of it releasing pederin.
The area where the flies sits should be washed with soap and water. If they are squelched and end up leaving toxic fluids on the skin, care should be taken that unwashed hands do not touch any other part of the body, particularly the eyes.