Brits warned harvest mites cause itchy red bumps in autumn

Harvest mites live in vegetation and woodland across the UK and land on humans and animals, including dogs.

They’re also known as chiggers or berry bugs and September and October are among the peak months for their activity.

Hanna Yusuf, prescribing pharmacist at Chemist4U, warns: “Harvest mites, also known as chiggers or berry bugs, tend to thrive in late summer and autumn because this is when their larval state is most active.

“The tiny larvae live in long grass, woodland edges and overgrown vegetation, waiting to latch onto passing humans and animals.

“September and October are peak months for bites, making outdoor activities particularly risky at this time of the year.”

How to know if you’ve been bitten by a harvest mite

Harvest mites can be missed as they’re “extremely small and difficult to spot”, Yusuf explains.

You can expect them to “cause intensely itchy red bumps or clusters of raised welts on your skin.”

Sometimes, blisters or irritation can occur, especially where clothing is tight, like the ankles, waistline and behind the knees.

What to do if a harvest mite bites you

Yusuf says you should not scratch where you’ve been bitten because the risk of infection increases.

Instead, she advises: “Washing the area with soap and water, applying a cold compress, and using antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream can help relieve itching and swelling.

“If symptoms worsen, the area becomes painful, hot or swollen, or signs of infection develop, it’s important to seek advice from a pharmacist or healthcare professional.”

When it comes to preventing bites from the small bugs, you should wear long trousers and footwear that covers your feet if you’re walking in long grass.

The pharmacist recommends showering and changing your clothes when you have spent time in “high-risk” areas outside.

How do harvest mites affect dogs?

The PDSA says harvest mites are small and orange and cause problems for dogs during late summer and autumn.

It adds: “Harvest mite infestations are most common on the feet, legs, and sometimes in the ears.”

They live in the soil and are “most active” between July and November.

The PDSA explains: “If your dog picks up a harvest mite infestation, they will become itchy and uncomfortable.

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“Some dogs are extremely sensitive to harvest mite saliva and develop intensely itchy, red, inflamed skin where they’ve been bitten.

“Infestations are most common in between toes, on the feet, legs, armpits, genitals, tummy, and can occasionally affect the ears.”

Pet owners should contact their vet if they think their dog or cat has harvest mites as they could need treatment.

Have you ever seen harvest mites? Let us know in the comments below.