The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has published its first evidence-based guide for tungiasis treatment. The parasite burrows into the skin and causes intense inflammation, pain, burning and itching, especially on the feet. Children and older adults are the most affected and the disease can cause chronic complications and social stigma.
The guide recommends low-viscosity dimethicone as the preferred treatment and ivermectin if dimethicone is not available. It warns against manual removal without antiseptic measures or trained staff. Common sharp tools for removal include needles, scissors and hairpins. The guide also discourages potassium permanganate and hydrogen peroxide because they can burn or irritate the skin.
PAHO says infections are concentrated in ten countries. More than 70 per cent of reported cases between 2010 and 2022 were in Brazil, mainly in Amazonian villages. PAHO estimates 450 million people live in at-risk areas, but many cases go unreported because of stigma and limited access to healthcare.
Difficult words
- flea — A small insect that bites animals.
- treatment — Ways to help make a person better.
- pain — A feeling of hurt or discomfort.
- poverty — The state of being very poor.poverty-stricken
- guidelines — Recommended rules or instructions.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why do you think tungiasis mainly affects people in poverty?
- How can healthcare policies help prevent diseases like tungiasis?
- What other treatments do you think could work for tungiasis?
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