This year, trillions of periodical brood cicadas emerged in multiple U.S. states, attracting oak leaf itch mites, known as Pyemotes herfsi, which feed on cicada egg nests and can cause itchy rashes in humans. The mites, originally from Europe, were first reported in the U.S. in 2004 and have since been found in several states due to wind transportation.
Measuring just 0.2 millimeters long, oak leaf itch mites are nearly invisible and have a reddish-tan color. They feed on insect larvae on pin oak leaves and can bite humans and animals, causing itchy, pimple-like bumps. Bites typically occur in late summer and fall when mite populations are large, often when people are gardening.
To treat mite bites, it is advised not to scratch to avoid infection, use products for relief, and consult a doctor if needed. Prevention methods include bathing after potential exposure and wearing protective clothing.
The increase in oak leaf itch mite bites after a periodical cicada emergence is linked to the abundant cicada population, as seen in the 2007 Brood XIII emergence. Broods XIX and XIII emerged this year in multiple states, with trillions of cicadas emerging once the soil temperature reached 64 degrees underground. This rare double-brood emergence had not occurred in 221 years and is not expected to happen again until 2245.
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