Tungiasis-related knowledge and treatment practices in two endemic communities in northeast Brazil

In communities of low socio-economic status in northeast Brazil, knowledge on tungiasis was high, but individuals did not follow appropriate treatment. A reduction of intensity of infestation, bacterial superinfection and associated morbidity is feasible with minimum support from the health sector, such as supplying hypodermic needles and disinfectants to mothers, and targeted health education.