Can Fleas Hurt Humans?
WouterFleas are tiny, flat insects that live on animals. They measure between 1/8 and 1/6 inch long and have six legs. They can burrow into animal hair and skin to feed. They’re reddish brown and have small, biting mouthparts. Adult fleas can jump over half a football field. They can bite a human, but flea bites aren’t always painful.
Flea bites can itch, and may cause bleeding. They can also cause pain in the muscles and joints. The bites may also develop small, discolored blisters or pimples. Some people also develop an allergic reaction to flea saliva. Although fleas are not toxic, they can cause serious health problems if a person is allergic to them.
In developed countries, fleas transmit minor diseases. However, global warming and international travel are increasing the risk of new diseases and viruses. In southwestern United States, fleas can even transmit plague. The fleas carry plague from rodents to humans and pets. If you’re afraid of fleas, you should keep your pets away from your home.
Fleas are most common in Africa, North America, and South America. They can be very annoying. However, they can also cause plague, which is a serious bacterial infection that can kill a person. There are several types of plague, but bubonic plague is the most common. It results in fever, chills, and characteristic swellings on the body. You can treat flea bites with antibacterial soap to prevent infection. You can also apply anesthetic cream to the area to make the itching less irritating. Just try not to scratch it too hard.
