How can fleas be removed from the legs? - briefly
Wash the affected area with hot, soapy water, then rinse and dry thoroughly; follow with a flea‑killing spray or lotion approved for skin use. After treatment, repeat the process daily for several days and wash all clothing and bedding in hot water to prevent reinfestation.
How can fleas be removed from the legs? - in detail
Fleas that have attached to the lower extremities require immediate removal to prevent skin irritation and possible infection. The first step is to isolate the affected area. Wear disposable gloves, then use a fine-toothed flea comb or a stiff brush to dislodge insects. Work from the ankle upward, applying gentle pressure to pull the parasites out of the hair or skin folds.
After mechanical extraction, cleanse the skin with a mild antiseptic solution such as chlorhexidine or a diluted povidone‑iodine rinse. Pat the area dry with a clean towel, avoiding rubbing that could embed remaining mouthparts.
Topical treatments can then be applied. Options include:
- 1% permethrin cream or spray, applied according to the product label and left for the recommended duration.
- 0.5% malathion lotion, used for resistant infestations, with strict adherence to safety instructions.
- Over‑the‑counter insecticidal shampoos containing pyrethrins, rinsed after a few minutes.
For severe cases, oral antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine 10 mg) reduce itching, while a short course of oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg) may be prescribed by a clinician to eliminate hidden fleas.
Environmental control prevents re‑infestation. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and floor crevices, then discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister. Treat the living space with a residual insecticide spray or fogger, focusing on cracks, baseboards, and pet resting areas.
Follow‑up inspection after 24 hours should confirm the absence of live fleas. If any remain, repeat mechanical removal and topical treatment. Persistent infestation warrants veterinary or medical consultation to assess underlying host factors and to implement a comprehensive eradication plan.