I work in an office with a lot of paper. I hear complaints that are refuted in the two articles that follow, both of which are generated by higher education. I leave it at that.
“Myth 3. Paper mites in an office will fly or jump and bite people. False. First, there is no such thing as a paper mite. Second, mites cannot fly or jump. The myth of paper mites probably is related to a phenomena know as cable mite dermatitis. The fictitious “cable mite” term was coined by entomologists asked to investigate “mites” attacking workers in a laboratory. The symptoms started after an electrical cable was installed in the ceiling of the lab. Particulate matter was dislodged from insulation during the installation and got into the ventilating system. The dust or “cable mites” was then circulating throughout the lab, irritating the occupants. When they removed the dust, the dermatitis that the workers experienced, ceased. If you think mites are biting you, collect them, bring them to your county Extension office and have them identified. What you think may be a mite, might not.”
And…
“Illusory Parasitosis
“A common problem that people encounter is “bites,” itching, or skin irritations that are assumed to be caused by insects but for which no insects or mites can be seen or found. Illusory parasitosis is one of many names used to describe bite-like symptoms caused by non-animal environmental factors. Other names used for the nonexistent arthropods assumed to be the cause of a skin irritation are “paper mite,” “sand flea,” and “cable mite.” There are no such animals as the mythical arthropods just listed.
“There are only a few biting insects that produce skin reactions, and these are all large enough to be seen and readily identified. Common biting pests include fleas, head lice, ticks, bat bugs, bed bugs and mosquitoes. Obscure or microscopic organisms that may bite are possible (the most likely being the skin-infesting scabies mite) but these can be isolated and identified by a dermatologist.
“Our study of unexplained biting sensations has uncovered several published articles on the topic and a long list of potential causes for “biting” sensations or skin irritation. Some of the most common causes are:
“Physical agents
- dry air
- static electricity
- personal and household products; e.g., detergents, cosmetics, jewelry
- environmental pollutants
- microscopic fibers; e.g., fiber glass or paper splinters
- gases or indoor air pollution; “sick or tight building syndrome”
“Physiologic factors
- allergies
- diseases and disorders such as diabetes
- neurological disorder such as shingles
“Psychological state
- anger, anxiety, stress, nerves”
via Illusory Parasitosis | Iowa Insect Information Notes.