They're so small they're called "no-see-ums," but these tiny biting flies are getting big attention from local scientists and for good reason.

The Placer Mosquito and Vector Control District is working alongside the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to trap and study a species of biting fly that could pose a public health risk.

Known as biting midges or gnats, these insects have the potential to carry and transmit Oropouche virus, a disease that's been spreading rapidly in parts of the Caribbean, South America, and even Europe.

"The biting flies we're talking about are very, very small and like mosquitoes, they can carry diseases," said Joel Buettner, General Manager of the Placer Mosquito and Vector Control District. "That's why we're interested in them."

Oropouche viru

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