Three-varied bugs, or kiến ba khoang, are a common occurrence after rainy spells. These insects are attracted to light and tend to follow other bugs towards illuminated areas. It is important to be aware of this and take precautions to protect yourself and your family from the potential harm they can cause.
1 Identifying Three-Varied Bugs
Three-varied bugs have a slender, elongated body that is larger than a typical ant, resembling a grain of rice in size.
Their abdomen is divided into distinct segments, featuring alternating black and yellow-orange colors, with a single red spot and a pointed rear end. They possess three pairs of legs, the ability to fly, and are extremely fast runners, with black heads.
Dr. Lâm Bình Diễm, a dermatologist at District 2 Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, explains that three-varied bugs thrive during the rainy season due to high humidity. They are highly attracted to white light, so when neon lights are turned on in the evening, they tend to swarm towards them, ending up on walls, floors, and even in people’s beds and personal spaces. They can be found on clothing, towels, bedding, and more, posing a significant risk.
2 What Happens If You’re Bitten by a Three-Varied Bug?
These insects secrete pederin, a toxic substance that causes burns when it comes into contact with human skin, leading to inflammatory reactions, blisters, and small pustules similar to burn wounds. This toxin is 12-15 times more poisonous than a cobra’s venom and persists long after the insect’s death.
Within 24 hours of exposure to the toxin, you will experience intense itching and swelling around the affected area. After 2-3 days, the skin will turn red and swell further, and small blisters will appear. These blisters will eventually rupture and coalesce, forming wounds akin to burns.
The nature of the injury includes red patches, blisters, pustules, and shallow ulcers on the skin. If left untreated, these lesions can cause extensive skin damage over time.
According to medical professionals, the complications arising from three-varied bug bites depend on the location of the bite. Bites on the body, arms, or legs can result in ulcers, unsightly scars, and dark spots.
Bites in the genital area can cause severe damage if not treated properly. If the toxin gets into your eyes, it can lead to swelling and corneal damage, affecting your vision.
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3 How to Prevent Three-Varied Bug Infestations
According to experts, three-varied bugs typically emerge during seasonal transitions, especially after heavy rainfall. Due to their attraction to light, they are commonly found in urban residential areas and high-rise buildings.
Here are some ways to prevent these harmful insects from entering your home:
– Regularly spray insecticides: This is the primary method of control, as it not only eliminates three-varied bugs but also targets other pests like mosquitoes and cockroaches.
– Avoid keeping doors open or using bright lights at night to minimize the attraction of three-varied bugs and other insects. In apartment buildings, ensure proper lighting arrangements, and opt for yellow or soft lighting inside your home, away from bright streetlights.
– Install insect screens: Insect screens are an effective solution for families with young children who cannot keep doors closed all the time. They prevent three-varied bugs and other insects from entering your home.
– Use bed nets while sleeping to reduce the risk of encountering three-varied bugs. Maintain a clean and well-ventilated home.
– Clear potential hiding places for three-varied bugs: Given their nature, these insects tend to inhabit damp and narrow spaces. Regularly tidying up your surroundings is an effective preventive measure.
– Repel insects by planting lemongrass or using essential oils with strong fragrances as an alternative to physical plants.
– Since three-varied bugs can cling to clothing, give your clothes a good shake before wearing them, and inspect your bedding thoroughly before going to sleep.
– If you accidentally squash a three-varied bug, wash your hands thoroughly with soap as soon as possible.
For further prevention methods
We hope that this article has equipped you with the knowledge to be more cautious around three-varied bugs and take the necessary steps to safeguard yourself and your loved ones.
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