Is It Possible For Fleas to Spread to Humans?
WouterWhen you find fleas in your home, the first thing you should do is wash the area thoroughly. Fleas have a special saliva that contains anticoagulants and increases blood flow, which is why their bites itch so much. The immune system then reacts to this substance, causing the skin to swell and become red. In severe cases, the bites can lead to infections and injuries.
The most common flea-borne disease is murine typhus. It is caused by a bacterium called Rickettsia typhi, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected flea. Infectious cases occur mainly in coastal regions and are associated with high density populations of rats. Infected humans can also be infected with murine typhus through contact with infected rodents.
When you bring your pets home, be sure to clean your pets’ bedding and other items. This is because fleas are more likely to spread from the animals’ beds than from humans. A pet bed that has been infested will encourage the fleas to multiply even more. You should also wash pet bedding and clothes regularly to prevent flea infestations.
While it is possible for fleas to spread to humans, a large infestation will be more difficult to remove. The key is to clean thoroughly, and make sure you get rid of eggs and adult fleas before they lay any eggs. Flea eggs are particularly difficult to kill, as they are more likely to persist even when you clean them thoroughly. Moreover, flea eggs can survive in dark places, such as in clothing and carpet fibers.
