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Barigüí ‘Black Fly’ Surge Triggers Alerts Across Greater Buenos Aires

Breeding in fast‑flowing water, the barigüí is hard to control despite rising complaints.

Overview

  • Local reports and new alerts detail a sharp increase from the Salado River basin into La Plata, AMBA and parts of Buenos Aires City.
  • Experts describe a bite that cuts the skin and leaves an open wound, causing pain, swelling, intense itching and occasional allergic reactions.
  • Dermatologists and entomologists note the insect is not credited with transmitting serious diseases locally, though scratching can lead to secondary infection.
  • Authorities and research institutes in the province have begun coordinated monitoring and targeted mitigation efforts focused on river and stream habitats.
  • Specialists link the surge to heat, humidity and recent rains that raised river flow, and advise long light clothing, avoiding riparian areas at dawn and dusk, and high‑DEET repellents with limited effectiveness.