Nobody likes insect bites. They can burn, sting, itch, and swell. From no see ums in Indiana to biting flies and bed bug bites – bites and stings are awful! Depending on the person and the specific insect that bit them, bug bites can even be deadly. Unfortunately, there are plenty of biting and stinging insects in Indiana.

If you live in Indiana or are planning on visiting anytime soon, it’s good to know which insects might pose a threat. It will help you plan on how to prevent bug bites as well. 

You’ll most likely find this spider in dry, quiet areas such as woodpiles, basements, and unused closets. Getting bitten is rare and typically causes light pain and swelling. 

We usually label this spider as extremely dangerous. However, most people bitten by a Black Widow notice no effects at all, and at the most, they experience temporary and mild pain. Keep in mind, though, that its secretions can be very harmful to animals and humans. 

While they don’t bite, they do sting. Yellowjacket venom is much more potent than honey bees and can be dangerous, especially if a person is stung multiple times. 

We call it an ant, but it’s technically a wasp without wings. Its sting is excruciating, and it is even referred to as “the cow killer” by some who claim the stings can take down cattle. 

The venom released by the stinger can have a severe effect on humans. It can even cause tissue necrosis. For the most part, these bugs will leave you alone unless they feel threatened. 

It’s no secret that Deer Ticks carry Lymes disease. Tens of thousands of people are diagnosed with Lymes disease each year, and most of them got it from a Deer Tick. Joint pain and chronic exhaustion can last up to six months and can resurface years later. 

Most of us know the annoying itching and, at times, swelling that a mosquito bite can cause. But despite the discomfort, mosquito bites can be quite dangerous. They are known to carry Malaria, West Nile Virus, Dengue, Zika Virus, and Yellow Fever. Of course, it’s unlikely your Indianan mosquito is carrying any of these diseases, but it’s still a good idea to be cautious. 

Beyond the bugs listed above, there are other biting and stinging insects like biting flies in Indiana, bald faced hornets, female no see ums, paper wasps, biting midges, and more. 

What can you do to prevent the harmful effects of insect bites and stings? What should you do to treat a bit or sting?

Preventing insect bites before they happen is ideal. This is especially true if you’re allergic to certain bug bites or stings, such as bee stings, which can cause serious health problems and even death.

If you do get bit or stung, in most cases, it is not a medical emergency. However, there are a few ways you can diminish the pain that comes with an insect bite. 

If you are allergic to the insect that stung or bit you or you have an adverse reaction, such as difficulty breathing, severe rash, or other serious health effects, you should immediately seek medical attention. 

“Call 911 or other emergency services if you're having a serious reaction to a bee sting that suggests anaphylaxis, even if it's just one or two signs or symptoms. If you were prescribed an emergency epinephrine autoinjector (EpiPen, Auvi-Q, others), use it right away as your doctor directed,” advises Mayo Clinic. 



Yes, bug bites and stings can be serious, so it is important to do all you can to protect yourself and those around you. What can you do to insect-proof your home? 

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