How Fleas Enter the Human Body
WouterFleas are parasitic insects that feed on human blood. They find their way into human bodies through animal fur and feathers. They usually live in areas where there are high concentrations of rats. If you come into contact with a pet that is infested with fleas, you should immediately get rid of them.
Adult fleas have flat, dark brown bodies with three parts – a head, two legs, and a mouth. The mouthparts are used to pierce the skin and feed. The bite of an adult flea is marked by itching and raised skin. The bites can last for several weeks, depending on the size and location of the flea.
Fleas are part of the siphonaptera order, which includes around 2500 species. Most of them belong to the Pulicidae family. Some of these species are of medical and veterinary importance. These parasites can be found in most domestic animals, including humans and dogs. Others can be found on birds, including chickens.
Fleas can transmit disease agents when they infest a human. They are most common transmitters of the rare Bubonic Plague and murine typhus. Humans are also susceptible to flea-allergic reactions caused by flea saliva. Moreover, fleas can also cause a variety of medical problems in humans, including anemia and tapeworms.
