Chigoe flea

Chigoe Flea (Tunga penetrans) is a species of flea that is native to Central and South America. It is also known as the sand flea or jigger flea. The chigoe flea is a significant public health issue in many tropical and subtropical regions due to its parasitic nature.

Description

The chigoe flea is the smallest known species of flea, measuring approximately 1 mm in length. Despite its small size, it is easily recognizable due to its unique behavior and the distinctive lesions it causes on its hosts.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of the chigoe flea is complex and involves several stages. The female flea burrows into the skin of a host, where it feeds on blood and lays its eggs. The eggs are then expelled onto the ground, where they hatch into larvae. The larvae feed on organic material in the soil and eventually pupate into adult fleas.

Impact on Human Health

Chigoe fleas are a significant public health concern due to their parasitic nature. They are known to burrow into human skin, causing a condition known as tungiasis. This condition is characterized by intense itching, inflammation, and secondary infections. In severe cases, tungiasis can lead to long-term complications such as gangrene and sepsis.

Prevention and Control

Prevention and control of chigoe fleas involve a combination of personal protection measures, environmental management, and community education. Personal protection measures include wearing protective footwear and avoiding areas where chigoe fleas are known to be present. Environmental management involves regular cleaning and treatment of areas where the fleas are likely to breed.

See Also

• Flea
• Tungiasis
• Public health