Before settling down to feed, chiggers move to a constriction such as sock tops, waist bands or armpits. Feeding chiggers inject a salivary fluid which dissolves the host's cells, then suck up the liquefied tissue. Within a few hours, small, reddish, intensely itching welts appear. These bites may continue to itch for several days up to two weeks after the chigger is dislodged. Stay out of areas where chiggers are likely to be present including woodlots, pastures, roadside ditches or other areas with tall grasses and weeds.
Chiggers are especially common in moist low-lying areas.
Wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid sitting or reclining on the ground when camping, picnicking or working outdoors. Always read and follow label directions. Immediately after possible exposure to chiggers take a bath, thoroughly scrubbing the body with hot soapy water. This will kill or dislodge many of the chiggers. When bites begin to itch, one course of treatment is to apply rubbing alcohol, followed by one of the non-prescription local anesthetics.