Can Fleas Harm Humans?

Although fleas primarily live and feed on non-human animals, they can bite humans. While flea bites are not usually harmful to humans, they can cause allergic reactions in some people. Even if you don’t own a pet, you are still at risk of being infected with fleas when you travel. The insects can attach themselves to your clothing, shoes, and luggage.

Fleas have been associated with humans for thousands of years. In 14th-century Europe, they were responsible for spreading the black plague, a disease caused by fleas that killed up to 25 million people. Until the discovery of antibiotics, fleas were one of the leading causes of death during plagues.

Flea bites usually occur on the ankles and calves. Adult fleas can take up to 15 blood meals a day. Human flea bites are typically more frequent, but this does not necessarily mean that you have a flea infestation. In some cases, multiple bites indicate repeated feeding by a single flea.

Fleas reproduce rapidly and can cause serious problems. In addition to transmitting devastating diseases, fleas can also cause skin irritation. These tiny creatures can live on top of the human skin or directly under it, depending on the species. They have four distinct life cycle parts.