Parasites from tropical travel can cause itchy rashes weeks later

Parasites picked up during travel can cause itchy skin rashes weeks after returning home, and experts say these infections are not harmless. Hookworm larvae are the most common trigger, causing winding skin tracks and severe itching. Fly larvae can burrow into skin, while infected sandflies transmit Leishmania, which may form ulcers and, in severe cases, spread internally. Symptoms often appear weeks to months later, making travel links unclear. Precautions include avoiding barefoot walking, sleeping under treated mosquito nets, and using insect repellent.