According to the USDA, some people who are allergic to shellfish may also be allergic to cicadas. This is because both shellfish and cicadas are arthropods, a group of animals that also includes insects and spiders.
Symptoms of a cicada allergy can include skin rash, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening.
If you have a seafood allergy, it is important to avoid contact with cicadas. This means not touching them, eating them, or inhaling their dust. If you are exposed to cicadas and experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.
The USDA also advises people who are not allergic to seafood to avoid eating cicadas if they have allergies to other arthropods, such as insects or spiders.
Cicadas are a type of insect that live underground for most of their lives. They emerge every 13 or 17 years to mate and lay eggs. The current swarm of cicadas is the largest in 17 years, and it is expected to last for several weeks.
Cicadas are not typically considered a food source for humans, but some people do eat them. In some cultures, cicadas are considered a delicacy.
