In a rare and shocking case that captured global attention, a 10-year-old girl was diagnosed with a severe jigger infestation. The extraordinary progression of her condition left the medical team astonished, leading to a groundbreaking report published in the prestigious scientific journal, The New England Journal of Medicine.
A chilling case that left doctors stunned unfolded after a 10-year-old girl was struck by a severe jigger infestation—so serious and complicated that it alarmed everyone involved in her care.
Reports reveal that the girl, who is English, had been visiting Brazil when she contracted the jiggers. Strangely, her parents only discovered the severity of her condition after returning home—and waited a full 10 days before seeking medical attention.
By the time she was finally examined, the infestation had worsened dramatically, reaching a level so alarming that her story was featured in the prestigious scientific journal The New England Journal of Medicine—shocking experts worldwide.
Doctors Successfully Remove Jiggers from 10-Year-Old Girl’s Feet in Surgery
According to the medical team, the tiny parasites embedded in the girl’s feet were carefully removed through a surgical procedure. After extraction, the affected areas were treated with topical antibiotics to prevent infection and promote healing.
What Is ‘Bicho de Pé’?
Commonly known as jiggers, Tunga penetrans is a tiny female parasite that causes a painful infection by burrowing into the skin—usually through contact between bare feet and contaminated soil. This highlights the crucial importance of avoiding barefoot walking in risky environments.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For:
The first sign is intense itching soon after exposure. This is followed by the appearance of one or more dark brown spots on the affected skin, marking where the parasite has embedded itself.
