Itch Mites Feed on Cicadas, Bite Humans

The trillions of cicadas that emerged across the U.S. this year are gone, but they've left behind itchy remnants in the form of oak leaf itch mites Pyemotes herfsi.

"The abundance of periodical cicadas emerging in their brood years may lead to an increase of the mite's population, and a rise of mite bites to humans."
-- University of Maryland Extension

Oak Leaf Itch Mites:

• Nearly invisible, measuring ~0.2 mm long
• Reddish-tan, elongated with a shiny exoskeleton
• Feed on larvae of flies that infest pin oak leaves
• Bite humans/animals when dropping from trees post-development

Bites:

• Cause itchy rash, redness, small raised bumps
• Occur late summer to fall when populations boom
• Affect gardeners, especially those raking leaves

Treatment:

• Avoid scratching to prevent infection
• Use products to relieve itching
• Consult a doctor if symptoms persist or infection occurs

Prevention:

• Bathe after potential exposure
• Wear protective clothing: long sleeves, gloves, hat

First reported in U.S. in 2004, these mites hitch a ride on the wind, spreading from Kansas to Illinois, Texas & beyond. They're an unintended consequence of the rare double-brood emergence of Cicada broods XIX & XIII, a phenomenon that hasn't occurred in 221 years & won't again until 2245.