Chiggers are tiny, nearly invisible mites that cause intensely itchy bites. These microscopic pests are a common nuisance, particularly for individuals spending time outdoors. Understanding these mites can help in managing and avoiding them.
Where Chiggers are Found
Chiggers are present across the United States, but are most prevalent in the southeastern and south-central regions, extending into parts of the Midwest.
States where chiggers are commonly found include:
Texas
Oklahoma
Arkansas
Missouri
Kansas
Louisiana
Mississippi
Alabama
Georgia
Florida
North Carolina
South Carolina
Tennessee
Kentucky
Virginia
West Virginia
Maryland
Delaware
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Michigan
Nebraska
Ohio
These mites thrive in warm, humid environments, favoring areas with dense vegetation. You can often encounter chiggers in overgrown fields, wooded areas, gardens, and moist soil near water. They are particularly active during late spring through late summer when temperatures are warm to hot, becoming less active below 60 degrees Fahrenheit and dying below 42 degrees Fahrenheit.
Recognizing Chigger Bites
Chigger bites are characterized by intense itching and the appearance of red welts. The chigger itself is almost impossible to see with the naked eye. The reaction you experience is not from the chigger burrowing into your skin, but rather from its digestive enzymes. The mite injects saliva containing these enzymes to break down skin cells, which it then consumes. This process creates a feeding tube that causes irritation and discomfort.
Symptoms typically begin several hours after exposure, as the chigger’s digestive enzymes continue to affect the skin. The bites often appear as small, red bumps that can resemble pimples, blisters, or hives, frequently in clusters. These bites commonly occur in areas where clothing fits tightly, such as around the ankles, waist, armpits, and behind the knees. The itching can be severe and may persist for several days to up to two weeks.
Preventing and Treating Chigger Bites
To prevent chigger bites, take precautions when in infested areas. Avoiding tall grass, dense brush, and overgrown vegetation can reduce exposure. Wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and long pants tucked into socks or boots, creates a barrier against the mites. Treating clothing with permethrin, an insecticide, or applying insect repellents containing DEET to exposed skin can also help deter chiggers.
After outdoor activities in chigger-prone areas, shower immediately with soap and water to wash off any mites that may still be on your skin. Treatment for bites focuses on alleviating intense itching. Over-the-counter anti-itch creams like calamine lotion or hydrocortisone can provide relief. Oral antihistamines can also help manage the itching. It is important to avoid scratching the bites excessively, as this can lead to skin irritation or secondary infections.