How Small Are Fleas on Humans?
WouterFleas are tiny, wingless insects that live on both animals and humans. They are brown or black and have flat bodies with six legs. The bottoms of their legs are equipped with strong claws and the mouthparts pierce the skin. While fleas are smallest of all insects, they can jump up to 12 inches and can bite multiple times. They are found in more than 2,500 species worldwide, with 300 species in the U.S.
Fleas are tiny and easy to notice. They are about 1/12 to 1/8 inch long and brown in color. They are wingless with flat bodies and six specialized legs for jumping. They have a flat body, which allows them to easily move through the hairs of their host. Fleas are also made of many spines that enable them to move through the hairs of their host.
Flea bites are painful and can trigger allergic reactions. The bite will look like a tiny red spot and will usually be located near the ankle or foot. Children tend to be more sensitive to flea bites than older adults. The bite will be itchy and painful and will cause the person to scratch it. Applying anti-itch creams can relieve the pain and prevent infection.
Fleas can jump from the skin of an infested animal to a human host. They do this because they require blood to survive. Humans do not have any protective feathers or fur to keep fleas from biting them. Humans are susceptible to the parasite, and fleas can be difficult to treat.
