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The main indicative sign of a geographic bug is the appearance of a red path on the skin, similar to a map, which causes intense itching, which can get worse at night. This sign corresponds to the displacement of the larva in the skin, which is usually about 1 cm per day.
The geographic bug, also called cutaneous larva migrans, is a parasitic infection caused by parasites Ancylostoma brasiliense and Ancylostoma caninum, which can often be found in domestic animals, such as dogs and cats. Thus, when walking barefoot in places that may contain the remains of animal feces, such as sand or fields, for example, it is possible that the infection will happen.
Symptoms of geographical bug
The geographic bug gets its name because the larvae that penetrate the skin make a little straight path that can be perceived, and are often similar to a map. In addition to the presence of a small, raised red spot on the skin, which is indicative of the parasite's entry, other symptoms appear that are related to the secretion released by the parasite, such as:
- Severe itching in the area that can get worse at night;
- Swelling in the skin;
- Sensation of something moving inside the skin;
- Appearance of red lines, similar to paths,
Symptoms can appear minutes or weeks after contact with the parasite, as the larva can remain dormant in the body for a few days until it begins to release secretions and move around the skin.
The most frequently affected sites are the feet, hands, knees and buttocks, since they are more easily in contact with the contaminated floor and, consequently, with the infective larva. See how infection by the geographic bug happens.
How to avoid the geographic bug
One of the ways to avoid contamination with the bug is to not walk barefoot, in any type of terrain, be it on asphalt, grass or sand. However, this recommendation is more difficult to follow on the beach and in parks and, therefore, it is important to avoid beaches where there are domestic animals such as dogs, for example.
At home, dogs and cats should take antiparasitic drugs every year, so that they do not have these parasites and do not release eggs in their feces, thus avoiding contamination of people.
How the treatment is done
The treatment to eliminate the geographic bug can be done with the use of medication or the use of an antiparasitic ointment, such as Tiabendazole or Mebendazole, prescribed by the general practitioner or dermatologist, which must be applied daily. This treatment lasts an average of 7 days, and must be done until the end, even if the symptoms disappear days before. Understand how treatment is done for geographic animals.