Chiggers

Only the larval form (known as chiggers) are parasitic to humans. Once on the host, they pierce the skin with specialized mouthparts & inject saliva containing digestive enzymes to break down the skin cells on which it feeds. The surrounding tissue eventually walls off the area, creating a straw like funnel (called a stylostome). This protects surrounding tissue but gives the chigger a funnel in which to continue to inject saliva & keep feeding. The larvae are able to remain on the skin for up to four days during feeding, although they are easily brushed or fall off before they are finished feeding. Chiggers can also attack other vertebrates, including cats and dogs.

Chiggers are almost invisible to the naked eye & people often don’t realize they have been bitten until symptoms appear several hours later. They are most commonly found in damp areas of vegetation & leaf litter, forests, woodlands & long grasses. They are most numerous in spring. 

Chigger bites:

Infestation of chiggers is known as Trombiculiasis. Common areas to be bitten are areas where the skin is thick or in skin folds, these include the waist, ankles, groin & armpits.  Symptoms of trombiculiasis are;

·         Itching, occurring several hours after being bitten.

·         Raised, red welts with a hard, white central area.

·         Secondary infection may occur due to damaged skin caused by scratching.

Treatment of chiggers:

Treatment is aimed at relieving the itch & may include;

• Calamine lotion, over the counter antihistamines or topical steroids to help relieve itching.

How to avoid chiggers bites:

• Avoid walking in overgrown areas.

• Remove thick, damp or rotting vegetation from your garden.

• When gardening, wear long pants & long sleeved shirts.

• Wear insect repellents when outdoors in prone areas.

• Remove & wash any clothing you have worn in exposed areas & shower immediately.