Few pests are as infuriating as the chigger, which can cause unbearable itching after an otherwise enjoyable time in the outdoors. Here are the facts about these pesky creatures, and how to get relief.
Myth: Chiggers are insects. Reality: Chiggers are the larvae of “harvest” mites in the family Trombiculidae, genus Eutrombicula; so, they are arachnids related to ticks. The larval mites have six legs, in contrast to the full complement of eight legs in the nymph and adult stages. The adult mites feed on insect eggs and other tiny prey.
Myth: Chiggers seek out humans. Reality: The preferred hosts of chiggers are reptiles and birds. People will do in a pinch, but are riskier, more hostile hosts.
Myth: Chiggers burrow into your skin. Reality: Chiggers remain on the surface of your skin. It is not the presence of the mite larva that causes the itching.
Myth: Chiggers suck your blood. Reality: Chiggers feed on tissue by injecting digestive enzymes into pores or hair follicles. As the chigger saliva works its way under the skin, your immune system responds by hardening the walls of cells on all sides of the saliva path. The result is a hollow tube called a stylosome. The stylosome is the “feeding tube” through which the chigger slurps up liquefied tissue; and it is what inflames and irritates the surrounding tissue, causing the burning itch and welt.
Myth: You can kill chiggers by applying kerosene or other volatile chemicals. Reality: Not only is this false, it can be extremely dangerous. Wash away chiggers in a bath of warm water and soap immediately after being outdoors.
Preventing Chiggers and Getting Relief
Chiggers are active from spring through fall, and especially so on humid, overcast days. They are abundant but spotty, so you may blunder into a “mite island” of thousands while your hiking buddy goes unscathed. Here are some chigger survival tips:
- Wear long sleeves and long pants, tucking cuffs into boots or socks.
- Apply permethrin-based repellents, like Ben’s® Clothing and Gear, to your attire and gear as instructed on the label. In addition, use repellents with DEET as the active ingredient, like Ben’s® 30 with its unique 30% DEET, water-based formula, which is made to evaporate slowly – so repellent stays on longer with little absorption into the skin
- Stick to mowed landscapes and well-groomed trails. Avoid tall grass, weedy areas, woodland edges, and vegetated lakeshores.
- The sooner you wash off chiggers in the shower or bath, the fewer bites and shorter period of intense itching you will experience.
- Use After Bite® products for itch relief from bug bites. Avoid scratching to minimize the risk of a dangerous secondary infection.