Find out the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for tungiasis, a parasitic skin infection caused by sand fleas. Learn prevention tips and complications. Guidelines for the treatment of tungiasis - PAHO/WHO | Pan American ...

Understanding the Context

Tungiasis is a parasitic skin disease caused by the penetration of the sand flea Tunga penetrans into the skin, predominantly affecting the feet. This condition is prevalent in resource-poor and ... Considering taking supplements to treat Tungiasis? Below is a list of common natural remedies used to treat or reduce the symptoms of Tungiasis.

Key Insights

Follow the links to read common uses, side effects, ... Both animals and humans are susceptible to infection. Tungiasis is caused by the adult female sand flea, Tunga penetrans. The larvae and pupae develop in dry shaded soils, mostly inside the sleeping rooms of houses with an unsealed earthen floor where most transmission occurs. Tungiasis is an inflammatory skin disease caused by infection with the female ectoparasitic Tunga penetrans, a flea also known as the chigoe, chigo, chigoe flea, chigo flea, jigger, nigua, sand flea, or burrowing flea (and not to be confused with the chigger, a different arthropod).

Final Thoughts

Tungiasis is a painful, itchy skin condition that occurs when female sand fleas burrow into your skin to feed as they lay their eggs. You develop white circles with black dots in the centers. Secondary bacterial infections are not uncommon with tungiasis. Tunga penetrans is distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including Mexico to South America, the West Indies and Africa. The fleas normally occur in sandy climates, including beaches, stables and farms.