Fleas Can Be Deadly
WouterFleas are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. Their bites are painful and red, and they can cause itching and irritation. Some fleas can cause secondary infections if you scratch them too much. To reduce the pain, you can apply anaesthetic cream or use an ice pack. You can also seek help from a licensed pest control operator if you notice a persistent flea infestation.
Fleas can be deadly, but they are rare. Infections caused by fleas are usually transmitted through pets than humans. It’s therefore imperative to keep your pets and home free of fleas. A professional exterminator can get rid of fleas safely using chemical products, and this can reduce the number of fleas in your home.
Besides causing itching, fleas can also transmit dangerous bacteria to your pet. Some species carry the Bartonella germ, which can cause Bartonellosis, a serious disease that can cause heart inflammation in dogs. If left untreated, this bacteria can spread to humans and cause heart disease.
Fleas live on animals for up to two months without feeding. Their mandibles are razor-sharp and can pierce through the skin. Fleas also secrete saliva with anticoagulants, which encourages blood flow. Female fleas lay eggs after they feed. Their eggs are oval-shaped and light-coloured. Within weeks, the larvae hatch and form a cocoon. Fleas then emerge from their cocoons when they hear footsteps or other sounds.
