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Ectoparasites 223

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

FIGURE 10-14 Identifying morphologic characteristics of the chigoe flea, Tunga penetrans

sometimes occur when the skin is broken by the follow-
ing ectoparasites.

Common Bedbugs
The common bedbug, Cimex lectularius, contains
an irritating chemical in its saliva that causes un-
comfortable skin reactions. These insects are 4 to 5
mm in length, quite visible, and may survive at low
temperatures for periods of up to a year without feed-
ing. Therefore, bedding may be infected and remain so
until the next victim arrives at some point in the future.
On occasion, infestations of bedbugs will be publi-
cized and will gain public attention. Often these organ-
isms may be found in transient motels and homeless
shelters where the personal hygiene of the residents Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
may be suspect.
These insects are flat and oval in shape and may
impart a reddish-brown color. They may inhabit the
house and furniture, as well as beds that have not been
cleaned and freshly made. They feed on humans, espe-
cially at night, causing bites that are extremely itchy and FIGURE 10-15 Adult bedbug, Cimex lectularius, as
which may become infected if not properly cared for. Al- it was in the process of ingesting a blood meal from the
though the amount of blood ingested is quite small and arm of a “voluntary” human host