What Effect Can Fleas Have on Humans?
WouterFleas are known to transmit diseases through their bites, but in the United States, flea-borne disease cases are relatively rare. However, with increased international travel and rising temperatures, the risk of flea-borne disease is on the rise. The most common flea-transmitted disease is the bubonic plague, also known as “the black death.” In the 14th century, the plague killed an estimated 25 million people across Europe. The disease continues to plague people around the world, though the rate of death has declined. Fleas are a vector of the Yersinia pestis bacterium, which transmits the disease through bites and inhalation. Symptoms usually appear two to four weeks after exposure to flea-transmitted diseases and usually respond well to antibiotics.
Flea bites often itch because of the saliva produced by the flea. The saliva contains an anticoagulant that increases blood flow. Because the flea bite is a foreign substance, the immune system reacts to it. This causes the skin around the bite to swell and turn red. The resulting swelling can cause infection and injury.
Children are also at risk of contracting cat scratch fever, which is caused by swallowing an infected flea. They may also contract cat scratch fever through their pets’ scratching, and this infection is sometimes transmitted to humans through their bowel movements. Although the symptoms are mild and can be easily treated, it is recommended to seek medical attention before symptoms begin.
