How Fleas Bite Humans
WouterFleas are tiny blood suckers that are reddish brown and about an eighth of an inch long. They have long claws on their legs and an adaptation that helps them travel through the hair shafts. They also have spines on their legs, mouth and back. These little bugs will attack both humans and pets.
Humans are the second most popular host of fleas, after dogs. Their presence increases the number of fleas in the area, resulting in more human bites. In addition, the demand for blood in humans’ bloodstreams is increasing and fleas can bite the people around them. Humans will experience increased pain when a flea bites them, but the amount of histamine released depends on each individual.
A flea bite will appear as a red, itchy bump. The bite is usually small and firm, with a red halo around the center of the bump. These bites can be itchy for a week or more. Flea bites are usually found on lower legs, ankles and feet, but can occur anywhere on the body that fleas can gain access to. Common areas where humans are infested by fleas include household pets, livestock and rodents.
Fleas can cause serious problems. Some types of fleas can transmit diseases like plague. You should know what to do in order to protect yourself and your family. If you find a flea bite on your body, take steps to treat it immediately.
