Sand Flies Are Spreading A Rare And Dangerous Flesh-Eating Parasite Across Texas

There are lots of creepy bugs in Texas, but sandflies have to be some of the worst. Why, you may ask? The reason is that sand flies can carry a nasty parasite called Leishmaniasis, which causes an illness that has the potential to produce painful, disfiguring skin lesions. Here's everything you need to know about sand flies in Texas, including how best to protect yourself from getting bitten.

Next time you're out on a hike in the Lone Star State, keep an eye out for bugs that look like this.

What you're looking at is a sandfly, which can spread a parasitic disease known as Leishmaniasis. The illness was previously thought to be endemic to tropical regions only, but experts have recently discovered that the parasite is, in fact, a permanent resident of the U.S.

The parasite that causes Leishmaniasis is called Leishmania, and the disease comes in many different forms.

Luckily, the type of Leishmaniasis most prevalent in the U.S. only affects the skin rather than the internal organs.

Leishmania is often harbored by rodents. Sandflies bite the rodents, then pass on the illness to people after biting them.

Most of the infections reported so far have been in Texas; it's the only state where healthcare workers are required to report Leishmaniasis infections.

Pictured here is a cutaneous lesion caused by the Leishmania parasite.

Again, the lesions are not life-threatening, but they can be disfiguring and extremely uncomfortable - especially when they affect the facial area. Fortunately, not everyone who gets bitten by an infected sandfly will develop these lesions. In fact, most people never even know they were infected. Treatments are available, but they often come with a host of side effects. In terms of prevention, sadly, no vaccines or drugs are available as of yet.

You're most likely to encounter Leishmania-infected sandflies in heavily wooded areas.

They're primarily active at dawn and dusk, so try to plan your outdoor activities accordingly.

The best way to prevent infection is to dress appropriately (long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hiking boots) if you'll be walking in the woods.

Having a good-quality insecticide on hand, like this one from REI, adds another layer of protection.

Visit the CDC website for more information about Leishmaniasis in the United States.

Have you ever encountered sand flies in Texas? If so, tell us about your experience in the comments. Don't forget to check out our hiking packing list for ideas about what to bring with you on the trail!