Mechanical vector potential of houseflies (Musca domestica) for mites

Houseflies (Musca domestica), which live in common areas with humans, can be mechanical vectors of many pathogens. Mites are an extremely diverse community of organisms that occupy various microhabitats, and many species are harmful to human health. This study aimed to detect the presence of mites in the washing water of houseflies and assess the potential role of these flies in mite transmission. Houseflies collected from households within the boundaries of the Tatvan district in Bitlis were included in this study. Houseflies were gathered from 80 households, with 43 located in urban areas and 37 in rural regions, within the study’s scope. After washing with PBS, the collected wash water was meticulously scrutinized under a light microscope to detect the presence of mites. Mites were found in 15 (18.7%) of the 80 samples, 8 (21.6%) of the rural samples, and 7 (16.3%) of the urban samples (P=0.544). It was determined that 40% of the identified mites belonged to the order Trombidiformes, 40% to Astigmata, and 20% to Mesostigmata. In conclusion, we believe that house flies act as vectors, play a role in the spread of mite populations, and can carry certain mites into homes that can affect the health of humans.