Flies, often dismissed as mere summer annoyances, pose a real threat as carriers of various diseases. Unlike mosquitoes, which are particularly dangerous in southern climates, flies and ticks are the primary disease vectors in Russia.

Flies can transmit helminth eggs, protozoan cysts, intestinal disease pathogens, tuberculosis, diphtheria, and even anthrax. These pathogens are picked up by flies during their larval stages, which often occur in environments where these diseases are present. Flies then carry these pathogens onto food, surfaces, and dishes, contaminating them.

According to experts, it is virtually impossible to distinguish an infected fly from a non-infected one with the naked eye. Both large and small flies can carry diseases, making it crucial to take precautions against all flies.

While midges, often confused with flies, are also small insects, they are bloodsuckers that bite rather than pierce. Midge bites, although more painful than mosquito bites, are not considered dangerous. Flies are attracted to the smells of meat and rotting food, so keeping these things sealed is vital.

Various methods exist for controlling fly populations and preventing infection. Sticky traps, available in stores, are a simple and effective way to catch flies. DIY bottle traps are also a solution. If a fly transmits a disease, symptoms may include weakness, fever, and loose stools. Seeking immediate medical attention is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.

Regarding fly bites, stable flies, also known as “biting flies,” can be more aggressive towards the end of summer, particularly in rural areas. Stable flies possess a piercing proboscis, resulting in a more painful bite compared to regular flies. While only an entomologist can definitively identify a stable fly, their bites are not known to transmit diseases.