Publish Date: December 16, 2025, 03:19h.
Updated On: December 16, 2025, 03:32h.
- After a troubling medical incident, Luenell Campbell spent a week in the hospital.
- The comedian dealt with an infection caused by bites from no-see-ums on Halloween night.
- Medical professionals in Vegas are reporting a notable increase in these nearly invisible insects.
Las Vegas comedy icon Luenell Campbell faced a serious health scare, leading to a week-long hospital stay due to bug bites that escalated into a medical crisis. The seasoned performer, who takes center stage at Jimmy Kimmel’s comedy club on the Strip, was rushed to the emergency room after a painful performance where she could only sit.
“While I was on stage, I felt blood pulsing to my right foot,” Luenell shared in an Instagram clip.
The comedian recalled being bitten while sitting on her porch in Las Vegas, dressed as a ghost for Halloween. When the itching became unbearable, she consulted a doctor who found nothing visible.
“I’ve dealt with mosquito bites throughout my life,” she stated. “But I believe the mosquitoes here in Vegas are tougher. They can bite right through clothing!”
Beware of the No-See-Ums
Subsequently, doctors identified the offenders as no-see-ums, also known as biting midges or ceratopogonidae. These nearly microscopic insects measure only 1-3 millimeters in length.
Unlike mosquitoes, which inject saliva using a proboscis, no-see-ums have scissor-like mouthparts that slice skin, causing immediate and severe discomfort, along with red welts that can lead to secondary infections if scratched excessively.
In recent years, Las Vegas has reported a surge in no-see-um activity, with dermatologists noting a rise in patient visits for bites from these insects.
Upon her hospital admission, Campbell had developed cellulitis, a serious bacterial skin infection that can rapidly spread through the bloodstream if not treated promptly.
“I had knee surgery, and I didn’t have a hospital stay like this,” she told KVVU-TV/Las Vegas. “I had a C-section; this is a different level. I’ve never been hospitalized for seven days before.”
After receiving intravenous antibiotics and ample rest, Campbell returned to performing the following Sunday. She stated that although she can walk again, her foot remains weak and scarred.
Her fans rallied around her on social media, and she reassured them of her commitment to continue performing.
“Anyone who knows me understands that I don’t cancel shows,” she affirmed on Instagram.