They are now present in the Caribbean, Central and South America, sub-Saharan Africa, and India, but not in Europe or North America. Jigger larvae live a few centimetres under sand or soil, feeding on organic matter.

How does a person get jiggers?

Chigger mites infest human skin via areas of contact with vegetation, such as pant cuffs or shirt sleeves and collars. They migrate on the skin in search of an optimal feeding area. A common myth about chiggers is that they burrow into and remain inside the skin.

Are jiggers in the United States?

Jigger is rare in the United States. The organism is easily identified if the physician is familiar with the clinical pre- sentation.