Can Fleas Travel on Humans?
When fleas bite a human, it is essential to seek medical advice to prevent further problems. A flea bite is typically an allergic reaction, but they can also cause an infection or illness. Primary care providers can help diagnose a flea infestation and prescribe medication or other products to prevent and treat the infection.
Fleas are highly mobile creatures that can jump up to 13 inches in the air. The average height of a flea is six inches. They have been known to jump 7.9 inches, but this is only the height of an adult human’s ankle. Thankfully, fleas can’t live on human clothing.
While fleas are usually found on pets, humans can also be at risk for infestations when traveling. Fleas can attach themselves to luggage, clothing, and shoes. Whenever possible, remove these items from your luggage to reduce the risk of flea infection. When traveling, make sure to remove clothing that has been exposed to the sun or sand.
Fleas are not as difficult to transfer to human clothing as people might think. Their preferred method of attachment is to latch onto fabrics rather than human skin. They do this by latching onto clothes and waiting for the skin to be exposed before biting. If you bring home clothes that have been exposed to dirt, you will bring fleas into your home with you.