Fleas in the apartment are biting people, how to eliminate them? - briefly
Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and floor seams thoroughly, then discard the vacuum contents to eliminate adult fleas and larvae. Treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved flea medication, wash all linens in hot water, and apply a licensed indoor insecticide spray or fogger to eradicate any remaining insects.
Fleas in the apartment are biting people, how to eliminate them? - in detail
Fleas that bite occupants create an urgent health concern and indicate a breeding source within the dwelling. Adult insects hide in carpets, upholstery, bedding, and cracks, while larvae develop in pet bedding, floor mats, and organic debris. Detecting their presence involves spotting small, dark specks moving quickly, finding flea dirt (dark specks that turn reddish when moistened), or noticing bite clusters on exposed skin.
Immediate control measures focus on removing the insects and their developmental stages.
- Vacuum all floor surfaces, rugs, and upholstery thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag.
- Wash bedding, curtains, and pet blankets in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Steam‑clean carpets and furniture to kill hidden stages.
Chemical interventions target both adults and immature forms.
- Apply a residual insecticide spray labeled for indoor flea control to cracks, baseboards, and under furniture; follow label directions for ventilation and re‑application intervals.
- Use an aerosol fogger for severe infestations, ensuring occupants and pets vacate the area for the recommended period.
- Treat pets with veterinarian‑approved flea collars, topical spot‑on products, or oral medication, as untreated animals repopulate the environment rapidly.
Non‑chemical options complement chemical treatments and reduce reliance on pesticides.
- Spread diatomaceous earth thinly on carpets and pet areas; the abrasive particles desiccate fleas on contact.
- Introduce beneficial nematodes (Steinernema spp.) into soil or carpet layers; they parasitize larvae.
- Maintain low indoor humidity (≤ 50 %) to disrupt flea development.
Skin reactions from bites require symptomatic care.
- Clean lesions with mild soap and water.
- Apply a topical antihistamine or corticosteroid cream to alleviate itching.
- Use oral antihistamines for widespread or severe pruritus; consult a healthcare professional if secondary infection appears.
Long‑term prevention hinges on regular maintenance and pet management.
- Groom pets weekly, combing with a flea comb to remove adult insects and eggs.
- Schedule monthly veterinary flea preventatives for all animals residing in the home.
- Perform weekly vacuuming, focusing on edges of carpets and under furniture.
- Seal floorboard gaps, window screens, and door thresholds to limit ingress from outdoor environments.
Consistent application of these steps eliminates the current infestation and establishes barriers against future outbreaks.