Chiggers are present in Florida, thriving in the state’s warm and humid environment. These tiny, mite-like pests are the larval stage of mites belonging to the Trombiculidae family. While adults are harmless, it is the six-legged larval stage that attaches to hosts, including humans, causing intensely itchy red welts.
Understanding Chiggers and Their Habitat
Chiggers, also known as “red bugs” or harvest mites, are arachnids, relatives of spiders and ticks. In their larval stage, they are extremely small, measuring around 0.15 to 0.3 millimeters, and appear yellowish, orange, or light red, often barely visible. Larvae possess six legs, while adult mites develop eight.
These larvae do not burrow into the skin or feed on blood. Instead, they attach to a host and inject digestive enzymes that break down skin cells, which they then consume. Chiggers prefer warm, damp environments with heavy vegetation, such as tall grass, wooded areas, thickets, and swampy regions. In Florida, they are abundant in areas like the Santa Fe and Suwannee River regions, and can be found in home lawns if conditions are suitable. They are most active from late spring through late summer, during the state’s warmer, more humid months.
How to Prevent Chigger Bites
Preventing chigger bites involves protective clothing, repellents, and outdoor practices. When venturing into chigger-prone areas, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Tucking pant legs into socks or boots creates a barrier that deters chiggers from reaching the skin. Light-colored clothing makes it easier to spot these tiny, reddish mites.
Apply insect repellents containing active ingredients like DEET or picaridin to exposed skin and clothing. Repellents should be applied to areas where chiggers are likely to attach, such as ankles, waistbands, and cuffs. Permethrin-treated clothing is effective, killing chiggers upon contact, though it should not be applied directly to the skin. After spending time outdoors, promptly shower with soap and water to wash off any chiggers that may not have yet attached. Washing clothes in hot water and drying them on high heat after exposure will also eliminate any remaining mites.
Treating Chigger Bites
Chigger bites manifest as intensely itchy, red welts resembling pimples, blisters, or hives. The itching begins several hours after the chigger has attached and can persist for several days, sometimes up to two weeks. Bites often appear in clusters, especially in areas where clothing fits tightly, such as around the ankles, waistline, armpits, or behind the knees, as these tight spots impede chigger movement.
Once a bite occurs, the chigger is usually no longer attached, typically falling off within hours or a few days. Over-the-counter anti-itch creams containing hydrocortisone or calamine lotion can provide relief. Oral antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, may help reduce itching, particularly if it interferes with sleep. Applying a cold compress to the affected area can soothe the skin. Avoid scratching bites excessively, as this can break the skin and lead to secondary bacterial infections. If symptoms worsen, show signs of infection (like increased redness, swelling, or pus), or do not improve with home treatment after a few days, seek medical attention.