Tungiasis: A Neglected Disease with Many Challenges for Global Public Health; 2014

Tungiasis (sand flea disease) is a parasitic skin disease with origins in South America. It was introduced into sub- Saharan Africa in the 19th century [1– 3]. Sand flea disease is a zoonosis caused by the penetration of female sand fleas into the skin. In humans, tungiasis predominantly affects marginalized populations. Children and elderly people are especially susceptible to severe disease.