itching. Scabies itch mites are killed by applying an appropriate insecticidal medication,
prescribed by a medical officer, to affected parts of the skin. Washing the skin
thoroughly with soap and water before applying the medication will aid in its
effectiveness. This should be applied as prescribed until all the mites are killed.
Clothing and bedding should be thoroughly laundered to prevent reinfection.
c. General Infections. Bites from chigger mites and some rodent mites may
cause severe itching. Infection may result from scratching these bites.
5-9.
MITE CONTROL METHODS
a. Unit Control. Area control of larval mites (chiggers) is often difficult or
impractical. In permanent or semipermanent camps located in scrub typhus areas, it is
desirable to remove all surrounding growth with a bulldozer, burn the collected debris,
and place tents two or three feet off the ground. Application of insecticide to the ground
in the camp area and in training areas will aid in mite control. Control of rodents is also
helpful in reducing the number of chiggers.
b. Individual Control. Mite-infested areas should be avoided if possible. If
mite-infested areas cannot be avoided, the troops should apply individual protective
measures as follows.
(1) All personnel operating in chigger-borne disease areas should wear
clothing which has been impregnated with the prescribed insect repellent. All clothing
except the underwear and the socks should be treated. Furthermore, blankets and
sleeping bag covers should be treated whenever bivouac in mite-infested areas is
planned. The impregnation instructions printed on the containers should be followed.
(2) Uniforms should be worn with the trouser legs tucked into the boots
without blousing rubbers. Shirtsleeves and collars should be buttoned.
(3) The standard insecticide repellent (DEET) should be applied to exposed
skin and to all uniform openings including the collar, shirt front, waistband, sleeve cuffs
and boot tops.
Section IV. LOUSE-BORNE DISEASES
5-10. LICE
Lice are found all over the world. They thrive during wars and among people
suffering economic hardships. Whenever large groups of people are deprived of home,
clothing, and bathing facilities, lice usually appear. Although lice are present in the
higher altitudes of the Tropics, they are found more commonly in temperate and
subarctic areas where people wear heavy clothing in several layers. Diseases
transmitted by lice have always been a threat to fighting forces.
MD0535
5-10