What should be done if a person has fleas on their body? - briefly
Shower promptly with hot water and a flea‑killing shampoo, then launder clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water and vacuum all surfaces thoroughly; seek medical advice for appropriate topical or oral treatment.
What should be done if a person has fleas on their body? - in detail
If fleas are found crawling on a person’s skin, swift action is required to eliminate the insects and prevent secondary skin irritation or infection.
First, remove the insects. Take a fine‑toothed comb or a flea comb and run it through the hair or body hair, starting at the scalp and moving toward the ends. After each pass, wipe the comb on a damp cloth and repeat until no fleas are visible. For clothing and bedding, shake out each item outdoors, then place it in a hot dryer (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) for at least 15 minutes.
Second, clean the skin. Wash the affected areas with lukewarm water and a mild antibacterial soap. Pat dry with a clean towel; avoid vigorous rubbing, which can damage irritated skin.
Third, apply a topical anti‑flea treatment. Over‑the‑counter products containing permethrin or pyrethrin are effective for short‑term relief. Follow the label instructions precisely, applying only to the skin surface and avoiding mucous membranes. If the person has a known allergy to insecticides, use an alternative such as a benzyl benzoate lotion after confirming suitability with a pharmacist.
Fourth, address possible secondary infection. Inspect the skin for redness, swelling, or pus. If any of these signs appear, seek medical evaluation promptly. A healthcare professional may prescribe a topical antibiotic or oral medication, depending on severity.
Fifth, eradicate the source environment. Vacuum all carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately. Wash all linens, towels, and clothing in hot water (≥ 140 °F/60 °C) and dry on high heat. Consider treating the living space with an indoor flea spray or fogger that contains an insect growth regulator (IGR) to interrupt the flea life cycle. Repeat treatment after 7–10 days to target emerging larvae.
Sixth, monitor for recurrence. Check the person’s skin daily for a week after treatment. Maintain regular grooming with a flea comb and keep the home environment clean to reduce re‑infestation risk.
By following these steps—physical removal, skin cleansing, appropriate topical therapy, medical assessment for infection, comprehensive environmental control, and ongoing observation—the infestation can be resolved efficiently and safely.