For several issues of the WMNL, human ectoparasites are being explained. Myiasis, caused by the botfly and Tungiasis an infestation caused by the Tungas penetrans flea, have been discussed. In this issue we will focus on lice.
In the last issue of the WMNL, a list of human ectoparasites was produced, and Myiasis, caused by the botfly was discussed. In this issue Tungiasis, an infestation caused by the Tungas penetrans flea, will be the focus.
Human ectoparasites are very common around the world and even here at home in the northern latitudes. These little pests are parasitic insects that live on the surface of or in our skin. They typically gain nourishment and cause irritation by either taking blood meals from us or by burrowing into our skin and taking up residence. They can be a vector for other diseases, but, it is their life-style habits that usually make them so bothersome. (Lee’s note: many of these articles make me very uncomfortable and really paranoid – they “make my skin crawl…”)
There seems to be an infinite variety of over-the-counter (OTC) ointments, lotions, lubricants, and creams for the skin. Most of these are for cosmetic purposes or to make dry skin moist or wet skin dry. However, there are a few that do have value and application in wilderness medicine.
In the last issue of the WMN we discussed Antibiotic Ointments, Iodine, and Bactroban Cream – July/August 2009, in this issue we will look at anti-itch creams.
All of the medications reviewed in this article are commonly available OTC medications.
