Can Fleas Kill U?

Fleas are not just a nuisance – they can cause serious health problems. They can spread disease through their saliva and bite, causing severe itching and irritation. These parasites can also transmit typhus, bartonellosis, and even plague. One such outbreak caused parts of a Denver suburb to be closed off in summer 2019, and even killed a teen.

Although fleas are most common around pets, they can also infest people who travel. These insects attach themselves to clothing, shoes, and luggage. Often, they are unable to sense human presence, so they stay in the pupae stage for months. It can take up to a year for a flea to reach this stage.

If you suspect that your pet may have fleas, it’s best to visit your primary care provider. A doctor will be able to assess your pet’s flea bites and determine whether they’re causing an allergic reaction, infection, or illness. They can also prescribe anti-itch medications, ointments, or other products to treat the problem.

A flea’s bite resembles a mosquito bite and is usually marked by a red bump with a halo. Most flea bites cause intense itchiness. However, the severity of the reaction varies from person to person, and is based on the individual’s sensitivity to flea bites. Some fleas, known as chigoe, do not trigger a reaction, and others may not show symptoms at all.