What are fleas on humans? - briefly
Fleas are tiny, wingless insects that can bite humans, feeding on blood and causing itching or irritation. They typically appear when a person is in close contact with infested animals or contaminated surroundings.
What are fleas on humans? - in detail
Fleas are small, wingless insects belonging to the order Siphonaptera. Several species, notably Pulex irritans (human flea) and Ctenocephalides spp. (cat and dog fleas), are capable of biting people. Adult fleas survive by feeding on blood; their mouthparts pierce the skin and draw a minute amount of blood, producing a characteristic itchy puncture.
The life cycle consists of egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. Females lay 20–50 eggs per day on the host or in the surrounding environment. Eggs fall off the host, hatch into larvae within 2–14 days, and develop into cocooned pupae. Pupae remain dormant until vibrations, heat, or carbon dioxide signal a potential host, prompting emergence as adults ready to feed.
Clinical signs of a flea bite include a small, red, raised papule surrounded by a halo of reddened skin. Bites often appear in clusters or lines, commonly on the ankles, legs, and waist. Intense scratching can lead to secondary bacterial infection. In rare cases, flea saliva may trigger allergic reactions ranging from localized swelling to systemic urticaria.
Diagnosis relies on visual identification of the insect or its fecal droppings (dark specks resembling pepper). Dermatoscopic examination can reveal the characteristic flea morphology: laterally compressed body, jumping legs, and comb-like spines on the hind legs. Laboratory analysis of collected specimens confirms species.
Management involves immediate removal of visible fleas, thorough washing of clothing and bedding at high temperature, and vacuuming of carpets and upholstery to eliminate eggs, larvae, and pupae. Topical insecticides containing permethrin or pyrethrins may be applied to the skin after confirming no hypersensitivity. Oral antihistamines reduce itching, while topical corticosteroids address inflammation. Persistent infestations warrant professional pest control.
Preventive measures include regular grooming of pets with flea‑comb and appropriate veterinary flea treatments, maintaining clean indoor environments, and using insect‑repellent clothing when exposure to infested areas is likely. Sealing cracks and removing clutter reduce habitats for flea development. Early detection and prompt intervention limit the risk of secondary complications and curb the spread of the parasites.