Can I Go to Work With Fleas?
WouterWhile the risk of flea bites is real, the problem is often not severe enough to require you to leave work. As long as your workplace is clean, you should be able to keep fleas at bay. However, it is not always as simple as that. In some cases, flea bites could be caused by outside sources, such as your pet’s environment. In such cases, it would be difficult to prove that fleas were the culprit. Regardless, it is important to keep your surroundings free from pests and flies.
Fleas are generally found in warm, humid areas. They prefer a temperature of 32 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Even if you go to work in a colder climate, you should be aware that fleas do not normally stay on humans for very long. The average stay is about 24 hours.
Flea bites are uncomfortable and itchy. They cause pain in the muscles and joints and can cause bleeding under the skin. The affected area may also develop small pimples or discolored blisters. If you’ve been exposed to an infestation of fleas, it’s best to visit a doctor to get a proper diagnosis. Your health care provider will likely ask you a few questions and may perform a skin biopsy to rule out other skin problems. A 1% hydrocortisone cream or antihistamines can help relieve the itching and irritation.
You can also kill the fleas by vacuuming the house and vacuuming the carpet and bedding regularly. These methods will kill most of the fleas, but you may need a chemical treatment to eliminate the infestation.
