I keep getting these weird clusters of 2-4 bites! They seem to materialize even when no bugs are around, and first are welts, then the welt goes away and they are just a red dot. I know all about bed bugs (I live in NYC) but I keep getting these bites outside of the home, sometimes under my clothing and sometimes not, and never in my bed. Also, each bite is about 1.5 to 2 inches away from one other, and the patterning is random, never in a row, like bed bugs; normally it's random, like a triangle shape. This has been happening about once a week for the last six weeks or so. I've searched my mattress and see no evidence of them, but can't figure out what these are! Am I in denial about bed bugs? Or what else could this be?

I would suggest consulting a dermatologist or other qualified professional.

You say bites: you may be right. Many critters that bite will do so without you knowing when it happens.

1. When do you first notice them?
2. Are there any other symptoms (fever, itching, etc.)?