Blandford Fly bites are on the increase in Herefordshire, with at least 260 cases already this year.

Residents and visitors are being reminded to protect themselves against the Blandford Fly.

The Blandford Fly is a 2 to 3mm bloodsucking black fly, which lives near areas of water and gives a particularly nasty and painful bite. The fly normally bites ankles and legs, as it flies low to the ground and is most common during May and June.

Healthcare professionals have advised that bites can be preventable if the correct precautions are taken.

There have also been cases of people who have been bitten booking appointments with their GP. While the bites can be uncomfortable, a visit to your GP is usually unnecessary, and your pharmacist should have all the advice and products you need to reduce discomfort and avoid infection.

Karen Wright, Director of Public Health for Herefordshire, said: “As the weather starts to get warmer, it is likely that we will see more cases of Blandford Fly bites across the county.

“We encourage people to take precautions if they’re out and about on our rivers and streams, by covering up and using a good quality insect repellent. If you do get bitten, it can often feel very uncomfortable with swelling, blistering, joint pain and sometimes a high temperature. However, there’s normally no need to visit a GP.

“If you do feel unwell after a bite, please call NHS 111 or visit your local pharmacy for advice on how to ease your discomfort. For the majority of people, the symptoms will only last a few days before clearing up.”

“Prevention by covering up is ideal, but if you do get bitten, follow the advice about bites on the NHS choices website at www.nhs.uk Elevation of the limb and a cold compress are important.