Loitering animals spread chiggers

Chiggers or red bugs are the larvae of mites belonging to the trombiculidae family. In humans, chiggers can cause intense itching and small reddish welts on the skin, which may result in secondary infection. The orange-yellow or light-red larval stage crawls on the soil surface until it gets to a host. The larvae suck fluids from the skin of the host and usually within three days, it is engorged. It then drops from the host and transforms into the nymphal stage.

Control measure
Chiggers on the skin are easily killed by taking a hot bath and lathering with soap several times. Dusting sulfur can also be used as a repellent on legs, ankles, waist and sleeves. Chigger infestations may be eliminated by clearing the nearby bush. Also, keep trash cans covered to discourage unwanted animals, which might bring in chiggers if allowed to roam on your premises.