Jiggers are small parasitic fleas that burrow into the skin of a warm-blooded host before laying eggs. They are commonly known as sand fleas and are scientifically named Tunga penetrans. Jiggers generally attack feet or hands, and at first, they appear as small black dots on the skin. As the females abdomen fills with blood and eggs, a bump forms underneath the skin, which is often painful and itchy and makes walking incredibly difficult. Only female jiggers burrow into the skin. If left untreated, jiggers can lead to deadly secondary infections or even amputation. People suffering from jiggers usually attempt to remove them with safety pins, thorns, or other sharp, and often unsanitary, objects.
Tungiasis is the medical term for jigger infestation. It is caused by adult female sand fleas, which burrow into the skin mostly of the feet. The feet are the most common infection point, but infestation can occur in all parts of the body. Severe pathology following an infestation is caused by bacteria entering the skin when the jigger penetrates. These infections can lead to abscess formation, tissue necrosis, and gangrene.
