What should be done for fleas on a person? - briefly
Wash the affected area with a medicated shampoo or lotion approved for human use, then rinse with hot water and change into clean clothing washed at ≥60 °C. Thoroughly clean the living space—vacuum carpets, launder bedding, and treat upholstery with a residual insecticide spray to stop re‑infestation.
What should be done for fleas on a person? - in detail
If a person is bitten by fleas, the first priority is to eliminate the insects from the skin and prevent further feeding. Wash the affected area with warm water and mild soap, then pat dry. Apply a topical antiseptic to reduce the risk of secondary infection.
Next, address the infestation on the body:
- Use an over‑the‑counter anti‑itch cream containing hydrocortisone to relieve irritation.
- Apply a topical insecticide approved for human use, such as permethrin 5 % cream, following the package instructions precisely.
- If bites are widespread or severe, take an oral antihistamine (e.g., cetirizine 10 mg) to control allergic reactions.
Medical evaluation is advisable when:
- Bites become inflamed, ulcerated, or show signs of infection.
- Fever, lymph node swelling, or systemic symptoms develop.
- The individual has a known allergy to insect bites.
Environmental control prevents re‑infestation:
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used during the past 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks in flooring; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved flea product; untreated animals often serve as the primary source.
- Apply a household flea spray or fogger that contains insect growth regulators (IGRs) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen to break the life cycle.
Monitor the skin for new bites over the next week. Persistent symptoms or recurrent infestations warrant a follow‑up with a healthcare professional for possible prescription‑strength therapy or investigation of underlying conditions that may attract fleas.