Chiggers are tiny mites that can cause intense itching and skin irritation. A common misunderstanding about these pests is that they burrow into or stay on human skin for extended periods. This article clarifies what chiggers are, their behavior, and what actually happens when they encounter human skin.
Understanding Chiggers
Chiggers are the larval stage of mites belonging to the Trombiculidae family, also known as harvest mites or red bugs. These tiny creatures, measuring 0.15 to 0.3 millimeters, are barely visible and often yellowish to light-red. Adult chiggers are harmless, feeding on plants or small insects; only the six-legged larval stage feeds on humans and animals.
Chiggers thrive in environments with dense vegetation, such as grassy fields, wooded areas, and moist soil, especially during warm, humid months. They wait on plants for a host to pass by, then quickly attach.
Do Chiggers Stay On Your Skin?
Chiggers do not burrow into or remain on human skin; this is a common misconception. Once a chigger attaches, it pierces the skin with its mouthparts, often in areas where clothing is tight or skin is thin, like ankles, waistbands, or behind the knees. They inject digestive enzymes that break down skin cells, creating a feeding tube called a stylostome. The chigger then feeds on this liquefied tissue, not blood.
Chiggers typically remain attached and feed for three to six hours before detaching once full. They rarely stay on a host for more than 48 hours. Intense itching often prompts scratching, which can dislodge them sooner.
Understanding Chigger Bites
The intense itching and red welts from chiggers result from an allergic reaction to their injected digestive enzymes, not from burrowing into the skin. Symptoms typically appear several hours after exposure, often after the chigger has detached. This delayed reaction contributes to the misunderstanding that the chigger is still present.
Chigger bites commonly appear as small, red bumps, sometimes resembling pimples or blisters. These bites are often clustered, particularly in areas where clothing was tight, such as around the ankles, waist, or armpits. The itching can be severe and may last for several days to two weeks, even after the chigger is gone.
Managing Bites and Staying Safe
If you suspect exposure to chiggers, showering with soap and water immediately can help dislodge any mites still on the skin. Washing clothes in hot water is recommended to kill any lingering chiggers. For symptomatic relief of itching, over-the-counter anti-itch creams (hydrocortisone or calamine lotion) or oral antihistamines can be effective. Applying a cold compress can also help reduce discomfort.
To prevent future encounters, avoid areas with tall grass and dense brush where chiggers thrive. When in such environments, wear protective clothing, like long sleeves and pants tucked into socks. Apply insect repellents containing DEET or treat clothing with permethrin for added protection. Keeping lawns well-maintained by frequent mowing and removing weeds can reduce chigger habitats around homes.