On Mon, 22 Sep 1997, Teresa Michelsen wrote:

> I'm not sure I want to know, but have been convinced I NEED to know.
What is a "chigger" and how do I avoid them?

Teresa--

I got introduced to chiggers when I laid in the grass under
my van in Dayton, Tennessee to change the oil..it was most
unpleasant.

apparently, the little varmints burrow into your skin..they
make little craters by chewing on you and mixing the skin
with their saliva..I believe they lay eggs which feed on
you as well..the result is annoying itching..

*thass what ah DON'T lahk about the south..* :)

I was told to tuck my pants in my socks and to not lie down
in the grass..I try an remember what when I'm in an area
that has chiggers.

I was not able to find any preparation that gave me
any real relief, but that was several years ago..
there may be new stuff now.

Tom