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10 Most Terrifying Parasites Ever (PICTURES)
Sand flies can cause serious damage. (Discovery/Animal Planet)
(CBS) Balmy weather, short sleeves, hikes in the woods, evenings on the beach, bare feet in the grass... summer welcomes you, and so do the parasites.
The creatures featured in this slide show have all been guests on Animal Planet's disturbing series "The Monsters in Me."
Whether you're planning an exotic vacation or plan to bring the fun to your own back yard, warm weather flesh-eaters and bloodstream-infecters are making plans to get under your skin.
PICTURES: 10 Most Terrifying Parasites
Some, like the botfly, plant their babies inside your body, others, like the tapeworm, hang out in your intestines or attack your feet like the threadworm. Some are even deadly if not caught early enough.
Don't panic. Many of these beasties are not common in the States.
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that you use common sense.
That means insect repellent, long sleeves and pants in areas known for tick and mosquito infestation. And in areas known for serious pests, wearing shoes at all times and avoiding going out at dusk and dawn.
PICTURES: 10 Most Terrifying Parasites
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