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What are jiggers in Kenya?

A jigger is a small parasitic flea that burrows into the skin of a warm-blooded host before laying eggs. Many of the children who join our Kinship Projects in Kenya have jiggers embedded in their feet and hands. And even more people in the community are affected by these dangerous parasites.

What causes jiggers infestation?

Jigger infestation is a neglected tropical disease caused by penetration of the sand flea into the skin of a person and other hosts. The wounds created cause pain, discomfort and may lead to secondary infections such as tetanus.

How do you treat a jigger infestation?

How do you treat tungiasis?

  1. physical removal of the flea using sterile forceps or needles.
  2. application of topical anti-parasitic medications such as ivermectin, metrifonate, and thiabendazole.
  3. suffocation of the flea by applying a thick wax or jelly, and.
  4. locally freezing the lesion using liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy).

What is the black stuff in jiggers?

The jigger is evident as a small swollen lesion, with a black dot at the centre, which can grow to the size of a pea. Severe pathology following an infestation is caused by bacteria entering the skin when the jigger penetrates.

What happens if jiggers go untreated?

Left untreated, chiggers will feed on liquefied skin cells for days or weeks. The initial “bite” is not noticed but symptoms, characterized by intense itching start 1-3 hours after feeding begins. The area of the “bite” may form a reddened pustule or blister.

What happens if jiggers are left untreated?

If left untreated, patients can die of secondary infections such as tetanus and gangrene, according to the CDC. “Jiggers can easily kill young children by sucking their blood and can cause early deaths in grown-ups who have other diseases.

What is the best way to remove jiggers?

  1. The best way to remove chiggers is to lather up with soap and rinse with warm water, repeatedly.
  2. Quick removal can reduce itching.
  3. Pat dry with a clean towel or cloth.
  4. Over-the-counter anti-itch medications such as pramoxine or hydrocortisone provide some relief.
  5. It’s best to leave the area uncovered if possible.

Does skin heal after jigger removal?

Although most people can recover from the infestation and heal without having any treatment, the signs and symptoms can mimic other ailments (like plantar warts for instance), so people usually seek treatment.

Are jiggers contagious?

They can’t spread from person to person or even bite you multiple times along the way. When multiple kids get chigger bites, it’s likely because they were playing in the same area.

What do jiggers look like?

Chigger bites are itchy red bumps that can look like pimples, blisters, or small hives. They are usually found around the waist, ankles, or in warm skin folds. They get bigger and itchier over several days, and often appear in groups.

Are jiggers real?

Tunga penetrans (commonly known as a jigger or jigger flea, but also known as chigoe flea, nigua, or sand flea) is a parasitic insect found in most tropical and sub-tropical climates. Jiggers are often confused with chiggers — a type of mite.

How do you prevent jiggers?

Repel Insect Repellent

  1. Repel them. Use a DEET-containing bug spray to coat clothing (including socks) and bare skin.
  2. Cover skin. Chiggers can’t bite if they can’t get to skin.
  3. Choose hard surfaces. When you’re outdoors, avoid walking in vegetation.
  4. Skip shade.
  5. Brush them away.
  6. Take a shower.
  7. Amp up your odor.