Where Do Fleas Live on Humans?
WouterFleas are parasitic insects. The first stage of life is the cocoon, where they will remain for up to five months until they detect a host. Detection is done through body heat, odor, and air movement. When these stimuli are detected, the flea will find a host and begin feeding.
Fleas are tiny, flat, wingless insects measuring a mere 1/8″ to 1/6 inch in length. Adult fleas have six legs and are capable of burrowing through coarse animal hair to feed. Flea bites cause itching and can be raised and swollen. The bites are usually in clusters, and can remain itchy for weeks.
The first step in preventing a flea infestation is to vacuum regularly. Fleas can hide in carpets, upholstery, and furniture. They can lay eggs in those materials, making them an ideal breeding ground. Vacuuming your home regularly, sanitizing furniture, and washing bedding regularly can prevent fleas from laying eggs.
Fleas rarely live on humans, but they can infest a home with no pets. Fleas from animals can still bite humans, but they typically feed on the feet, ankles, and legs. However, they are unlikely to feed for more than 12 hours. In addition, they require a host to lay eggs.
Fleas have a long history with humans. They were responsible for the spread of the Yersinia pestis bacterium, which killed as many as 25 million people in Europe in the 14th century. Before the development of antibiotics, this disease was widespread and fatal. Today, antibiotics have helped reduce the threat of human infection by fleas.
