3. Demodex Mites

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Also known as follicle mites or eyelash mites, these little beasties live happily under the surface of the skin on the hair follicles. Two different species of these things have been identified that target humans. They normally don’t cause any problems, but in the cases where someone is suffering from a weakened immune system (perhaps from lymphatic filariae!), more serious conditions may develop such as itching and inflammation. They are passed from one person to the other by contact with hair, eyebrows, and nasal secretions. Sounds like another excellent excuse (not that we need more) to stay well clear of other people’s snot rags!