Man Diagnosed with Skin Parasite After Barefoot Rice Field Walk
A 58-year-old man developed cutaneous larva migrans after walking barefoot in a rice field, showing winding, itchy tracks on his left foot that expanded over several days. He was treated with albendazole and recovered fully within two weeks. Authorities warn against barefoot exposure to contaminated soil and advise seeking medical care for similar skin lesions.
After being prescribed albendazole 400 mg once daily for three days, the patient’s itching and skin lesions resolved within two weeks with no recurrence. Health officials advise avoiding barefoot contact with soil or sand that may be contaminated with dog or cat feces, especially in wet or poorly sanitized areas, and recommend wearing shoes or using a mat when touching the ground. Anyone noticing a moving, winding, itchy rash should seek medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and treatment, rather than self-medicating with over-the-counter dewormers.
