Why Fleas Bite Some People and Not Others
The chemical makeup of humans and animals can determine why fleas bite some people and not others. Because people have different skin secretions and emit different gases, some fleas are attracted to people with certain chemical profiles, while others prefer other hosts. Some people are also allergic to flea saliva, which can explain why they experience an allergic reaction after being bitten by fleas. Fleas can also send a message to other fleas nearby to tell them they are about to feed on warm blooded hosts.
Another possible explanation for why fleas bite some people and not others is that the scent on some people’s bodies is more attractive to fleas than on other people. In addition to skin secretions, fleas like the smell of certain foods and substances that are applied to the skin. These scents include garlic, onions, curry, and pungent plants. These substances are naturally found in sweat and can be effective flea repellents.
In some cases, a person may experience flea bites despite having no pets at home. It’s also possible that a person’s genetic makeup is the reason why they’re more likely to be bitten by fleas. While we can’t predict the future, it’s possible to control flea numbers in our home by making sure that the environment is clean.