Stop these itchy bites! Post-cicada, there's a mite invasion.

Yet another example of nature wreaking havoc on marginalized communities

Trillions of periodical brood cicadas emerged across multiple U.S. states this year, and now, some people are feeling the painful, itchy consequences of oak leaf itch mites. These mites, with the scientific name Pyemotes herfsi, have been feeding on the cicada egg nests and, in their wake, leaving a trail of bite rashes on humans. The mites originated in Europe and were first spotted in the U.S. in Kansas back in 2004. Since then, they've hitched a ride on the wind and spread to several other states, from Illinois to Texas.

What's the deal with these mites?

At a minuscule 0.2 millimeters long, these reddish-tan insects are practically invisible to the naked eye. They typically feed on the larvae of flies that hang out on pin oak leaves. But, once they're done chowing down, they drop from the trees and may come into contact with humans and animals, spreading their love with itchy bites.

What do their bites feel like and how do I treat them?

If you're unlucky enough to be bitten by one of these mites, you'll probably experience an itchy rash and redness of the skin with small, raised bumps that look like pimples. It's important to resist the urge to scratch, as this can lead to a secondary bacterial infection. Instead, reach for itch-relief products and consult a doctor if the symptoms persist or an infection develops. To avoid becoming a tasty treat for these mites, take a bath as soon as possible after spending time in areas where they may be lurking, and always wear protective clothing, including long sleeves, gloves, and a hat.

Why are these mites biting people now?

The surge in mite bites coincides with the emergence of the cicadas. The University of Maryland Extension explains that the massive number of cicadas emerging in their brood years leads to a population boom for the mites, resulting in an increased likelihood of human encounters.

The bottom line

The simultaneous emergence of Brood XIX and Brood XIII this year was a rare event that hasn't occurred in 221 years and won't happen again until 2245. So, while we may get a reprieve from these itchy intruders for a while, it's important to remember that climate change and human activity continue to disrupt natural cycles and ecosystems, leading to unforeseen consequences for humans and the environment. Stay vigilant and informed, and always remember to protect marginalized communities who are often disproportionately affected by these types of events.