Ectoparasitic Infections
What are Ectoparasitic Infections?
Ectoparasitic infections are contagious infections that are very common in humans and animals. These infections are caused by the infestation of tiny multicellular organisms (insects) like, lice, bugs, mites, fleas etc.
These parasites live on the surface of the host’s body. Some examples of ectoparasites include lice, fleas, ticks, and mites. These parasites feed on the host’s blood or skin cells and can cause irritation, and itching, and sometimes transmit diseases.
Some common diseases caused by ectoparasites include Lyme disease (transmitted by ticks), bubonic plague (transmitted by fleas), pediculosis pubis (caused by mites), and scabies (caused by mites). Among these infections scabies and pediculosis are STIs. Treatment for ectoparasitic infections often involves topical or oral medications to kill the parasites and relieve symptoms. In some cases, removing the source of infection (such as flea-infested bedding) is also necessary for effective treatment.
It’s essential to prevent ectoparasitic infections, such as using insect repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants in areas with high tick populations, and regularly washing bedding and clothing to remove parasite eggs.
