what causes jiggers

Jiggers, also known as tungiasis, are caused by adult female sand fleas, specifically the Tunga penetrans species. These fleas burrow into the skin, usually of the feet, and lay their eggs, causing intense itching, inflammation, and acute pain. The jigger is evident as a small swollen lesion, with a black dot at the center, which can grow to the size of a pea. Severe pathology following an infestation is caused by bacteria entering the skin when the jigger penetrates, which can lead to abscess formation, tissue necrosis, and gangrene. Tungiasis is common in impoverished areas and can cause life-threatening infections. If left untreated, jiggers can lead to deadly secondary infections or even amputation.