I'm horrifically allergic to the little bastards.
Once bitten, I swell up faster than Chompy's knob once he catches a glimpse of a semi conscious woman.
( Davros' Granddad a voice of calm reason in a world of spastics., Wed 14 Sep 2011, 15:44, 1 reply, 14 years ago)

Oooo!
that's REALLY swollen then!

If I get bitten I itch for an hour or so, then it fades- but for that hour I'm a doubled-over scratching cursing ball of venom.
( The Resident Loon Not a demographic. Do not measure., Wed 14 Sep 2011, 15:54, Reply)

Lucky you.
I've come back from holidays with two week old bites that have persisted for months afterwards.
( Davros' Granddad a voice of calm reason in a world of spastics., Wed 14 Sep 2011, 16:00, Reply)

My immunity was hard won.
I spent the first eighteen years of my life being chewed every summer by Adirondack black flies and deer flies. (Google for them to read the tales of woe from others. They have been known to drive strong men mad.) After a period of years you develop a resistance to the bites, so your body can throw off the effect more quickly than most.

I don't recommend the experience.

I can, however, recommend Burt's Bees insect repellent. All herbal, inoffensive smelling, but very effective!
( The Resident Loon Not a demographic. Do not measure., Wed 14 Sep 2011, 16:06, Reply)