the flea tunga penetrans is responsible for the famous bicho-do-pé, also called bicho-de-pé, or tungiasis. Extremely small in size, reaching approximately one millimeter in length, this organism is found all over the world, usually in sandy, warm and dry soils. Thus, corrals, pigsties, sandy terrain, beaches, among others, are favorable environments for its occurrence.
Despite its name, the bug can penetrate the skin of any region of the body, although this is the most frequently affected. Furthermore, it is not just human beings that are their hosts: pigs, dogs, cats and rats, for example, are not unharmed.
Such infestation is a relatively common problem. It causes itching, and sometimes pain, as this arthropod over there is feeding on the host's blood in order for its eggs to develop. Thus, only fertilized females are able to provoke it. These can reach the size of a pea while parasitizing their hosts.
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Only the flea's ovulatory organ is in contact with the external environment. About fifteen days after releasing all eggs, the female dies. Then it is naturally expelled by the host's organism.
In addition to the typical discomfort of this infestation, there is a potential risk of secondary infections, such as gangrene and tetanus, even after the female leaves. Thus, it may be interesting to seek professional help from the beginning. Procedures will include asepsis, removal of the parasite and local disinfection.
Prevention is by avoiding walking barefoot, especially in places conducive to the presence of this flea. Apply insecticides to the environment, trim the grass well, remove dry leaves from the yard, and treat infested domestic animals, as well as the place where they sleep; are also important measures.
By Mariana Araguaia
Biologist, specialist in Environmental Education
Brazil School Team
Curiosities - Brazil School
Would you like to reference this text in a school or academic work? Look:
ARAGUAIA, Mariana. "Do you know what the foot bug is?"; Brazil School. Available in: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/curiosidades/voce-sabe-que-bichodope.htm. Accessed on June 27, 2021.
