Although
leeches are distasteful they do not carry any serious diseases.
Their bite may cause secondary infections. Covering up exposed
skin, and tucking in trousers helps deter them, but most can
still penetrate this
To remove a leech a person can wait until it is sated with blood
and it will naturally fall off. To speed up removal applying
a lighted cigar, vinegar, salt or chili help. Direct pulling
may leave the leech mouth wide inside. Because leeches use an
anticoagulant to help them, their bites bleed for a while after
removed. Direct pressure is the best way to control bleeding.
