Sand Flea Bites

Sand fleas refer to the small marine amphipods belonging to the family Talitridae, and are commonly known as sand hoppers or beach hoppers. Their average length is 1.5 cm, but can be as long as 2.5 cm. This shrimp-like creatures have a segmented body and an exterior skeletal system made of chitin.

Although it is small in size, it has acquired a reputation by outperforming mosquitoes in delivering nasty bites on the area around the ankles. Sand fleas can jump to at least 40 cm in the air, before delivering the bite. The good news is that there are less chances of you receiving bites on the upper body area, unless you are lying on the beach.

If you are near wetlands, swamplands, creeks, or on the beach where the sea waves have deposited the seaweed, watch out for the high-pitched whining sound. Its probable cause may include a swarm of sand fleas buzzing communally. If it is so, it is best to get out of the area.

Although, seaweed is favorite among these fleas, they also eat organic and decaying plants. By biting, sand flea females acquire blood proteins that plays an important role in laying of eggs.

A simple remedy to minimize the ill-effects of a bite, is not to scratch the welt caused by it. This will also minimize the risk of infection in the affected area. Be determined as it will help in controlling the symptoms of the bite such as swelling which is accompanied by itching and skin redness.

Examine the site of the bite as sometimes a sand flea, after biting burrows itself under the skin and keeps on sucking blood.

Itching and rash that are caused by a sand flea bite can be controlled and reduced with a topical cream containing antihistamine. Topical application of gel containing pain killers such as ibuprofen may also help to sooth the pain caused by the bite. If the pain worsens, it is better to consult a medical professional who has specialized in tropical diseases.

As a home remedy applying cold pack as well as a mixture of baking soda and water at the site of bite, can also give relief to you. Add oatmeal to lukewarm water in your bathtub and soak for sometime. This helps in lessening the itching sensation due to the bites.

It is said that 'prevention is the best medication!' Following are few hints which will help you in coming up with your own strategy to successfully give a slip to these insects.

► Is there a time when sand fleas are most irritated or freaked out? Do not visit the beach immediately after it has rained. Moisture and the cool air that the rain causes, brings the worst out of the sand fleas. It is a time they are most agitated. Venture out when it is dry and warm.

► Sand fleas are most active during the early morning, you better wait till it is warm. Go to the beach after mid-morning or postpone it till early afternoon, as it is most suitable.

► When you sit on the beach, make sure to cover yourself. Bites are commonly observed on the back of thighs, ankles and calves.

► After the sunset, as the evening wears off, it gets cooler which perfectly suits for the sand fleas to commence a raid. If you are having a beach party, it is best to keep your insect repellant handy to ward off these uninvited guests.

It is important to know that no two individuals react in the same way to sand flea bites. It may happen that your companion may react very badly to the bites and you may only suffer from minor irritation.

It may happen because of the previous exposure to the fleas or differences in the immune systems. The point is that if you are on the receiving end then do not stop yourself from seeking medical attention only because your companion is feeling fine.