Siphonaptera, or Fleas 



129 



of the feet, although it may attack other parts of the body. Mense 

 records the occurrence in folds of the epidermis, as in the neighbor- 

 hood of the anus. They give rise to irritation 

 and unless promptly and aseptically removed 

 there often occurs pus formation and the 

 development of a more or less serious abscess. 

 Gangrene and even tetanus may ensue. 



Treatment consists in the careful removal 

 of the insect, an operation more easily accom- 

 plished a day or two after its entrance, than 

 at first, when it is unswollen. The ulcerated 

 point should then be treated with weak car- 

 bolic acid, or tincture of iodine, or dusted 

 thoroughly with an antiseptic powder. 



Castellani and Chalmers recommend as 

 prophylactic measures, keeping the house clean and keeping pigs, 

 poultry, and cattle away therefrom. "High boots should be used, 

 and especial care should be taken not to go to a ground floor bath- 

 room with bare feet. The feet, especially the toes, and under the 

 nails, should be carefully examined every morning to see if any black 



Echidnophaga gallinacea. 



97. Echidnophaga gallinacea infesting head of chicken. After Enderlein. 



dots can be discovered, when the jigger should be at once removed, 

 and in this way suppuration will be prevented. It is advisable, 



