Mites that Often Bite Humans

Although many different types of mites can infest a home, not all species bite. The most common biting mites are rodent and bird mites, harvest mites, and itch mites. The dust mite, which by some estimates infests nearly half of all homes, does not bite humans; unfortunately, many people develop an allergic reaction to their secretions.

In a home, mites live in materials such as carpets, mattresses, upholstered furniture, and bed sheets. If the mites brought into the home are of the biting variety, residents will soon become aware of itching, and may sometimes see tiny raised welts at the site where the biting mites insert their fangs. Although their bites can be painful and itchy, most biting mites do not transmit disease.

Most biting mites are not actually parasitic to humans; although they may attach briefly and bite, they usually are transmitted from other animals. Some mites, including scabies and chiggers, do live off of humans, however. In the case of scabies, prescription medication is typically required to kill the mites.

The most common biting mites include the following:

• • Rodent Mites — These mites live on rats and mice; when the rodent dies or leaves its nest behind, they can bite people instead. There are three types of rodent mites that regularly bite humans: the tropical rat mite, the house mouse mite, and the spiny rat mite. Of these, the bite of the tropical rat mite is considered to be one of the most painful, leaving itchy welts and irritated skin.

• • Bird Mites — Living on several different types of birds, including chickens, bird and fowl mites infest nests and can spread to people who come into contact with infested birds. Pet birds can also become infested. The bites are usually small and itchy, and can last for a week.

• • Harvest Mites — Also known as chiggers, only in the larval stage do these mites bite people. Most common in the summer months, they are spread to people walking through grasses or other vegetation. They cling to the skin, usually in areas when clothing is constricted, and can feed for up to four days if not killed. Fortunately, they can be killed by being brushed or scratched away.

• • Itch Mites — Sometimes called grain-itch mites, this group contains a number of species that feed primarily on insects. They are often found infesting grain, straw, and other stored products. Their bite produces a very itch rash.

• Scabies — This mite burrows under the skin of infected people to lays its eggs. They cause an allergic reaction, which results in an itchy rash and sores. Scabies is easily spread from person to person, and can also infest clothing, bedding, and carpets. Prescription medication is usually required to kill an infestation, and the home of a person who has scabies must be carefully cleaned to completely get rid of them.

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