Remedies for No-See-Um Bites

Does it feel like something is flying around you outside, but you can't see anything? While it seems like you're swatting in the air at nothing, chances are, no-see-ums are flying around you. Running into these bugs is inevitable, but you can take plenty of preventative actions to repel them while you enjoy your time outside.

What Are No-See-Ums?

No-see-ums, or biting midges, are bugs in the biting fly family. They get their name from being barely visible to the naked eye due to their small composition and light color. As their family ties suggest, they bite, so make sure you have plenty of bug spray. The bugs have a hunger for blood, so they commonly bite animals and humans. 

No-see-ums are attracted to various things, such as:

• Heat
• Carbon dioxide (CO)
• Body odor
• Light

What Environments Do No-See-Ums Call Home?

Biting midges love warm climates and often stay in moist areas, like the Florida Keys. Don't be surprised if you catch a glimpse of them or experience some bites while at Sugarloaf Key / Key West KOA Resort. Due to Florida's year-round warm weather, you'll likely “see” them all year. Fortunately, they are most active during dawn and dusk, so you won't have to deal with them too often during the day. 

Places you'll notice no-see-ums include:

• Grass
• Standing water
• Street lights
• Damp soil

Ways to Repel No-See-Ums

While no-see-ums are common, you can still enjoy your time in The Keys. Here are some tips for repelling no-see-um bites and bugs in general:

• Use bug spray specifically labeled for repelling biting midges or ones with DEET.
• Create an essential oil spray using eucalyptus, mint, lemon or camphor.
• Place carbon dioxide traps around your home to attract them in one spot. 

How to Treat No-See-Um Bites

When you get a bite from a biting midge, you may develop a red, itchy bump. Here are some tips and remedies for treating a no-see-um bite:

• Wash and dry the bite as soon as possible.
• Apply ice or a cold compress on top of the bite to relieve itching.
• Use over-the-counter topicals to reduce itching symptoms.
• Create a paste with baking soda and either witch hazel or vinegar to put on the bite to prevent itching.
• Take allergy medication to reduce discomfort.

Avoid scratching the bites to reduce the risk of infection. If you have a severe allergy or reaction to no-see-um bites, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Camp at Sugarloaf Key / Key West KOA Resort

Camping is an excellent way to enjoy the great outdoors. Even if no-see-ums are present during your stay, you don't have to let them get the best out of your fun trip. The repellents and remedies for no-see-ums can help you make the most of your vacation to The Keys. 

Come to Sugarloaf Key / Key West KOA Resort for an unforgettable vacation in Florida. We'll help you find a comfortable place to stay, whether in an RV, tent or at the onsite Sugarloaf Key Hotel. Reserve your campsite with us today!