What should be done if there are fleas on the body? - briefly
Wash the infested skin with hot, soapy water and apply a licensed flea‑killing lotion or shampoo. Then launder clothing and bedding in hot water, vacuum the surroundings thoroughly, and consult a medical professional if bites cause severe irritation.
What should be done if there are fleas on the body? - in detail
If fleas have infested a person’s skin, immediate action is required to eliminate the insects and prevent secondary skin infections.
First, remove the insects mechanically. Take a fine-toothed comb or a flea comb, wet it with warm water, and run it through the hair or body hair from the scalp to the tips. Repeat the process every few hours for 24–48 hours, discarding the combed fleas into soapy water to ensure they do not escape.
Second, cleanse the affected areas. Use a mild antiseptic soap and lukewarm water, washing thoroughly for at least 30 seconds. Pat the skin dry with a clean towel; avoid rubbing, which can drive fleas deeper into the hair follicles.
Third, apply an appropriate topical treatment. Over‑the‑counter products containing pyrethrins, permethrin, or dimethicone are effective against adult fleas and larvae. Follow the label instructions precisely: apply a thin layer to the skin or hair, leave it for the recommended duration, then rinse or wipe off as directed.
Fourth, address potential secondary complications. Inspect the skin for erythema, papules, or pustules. If any signs of infection appear—redness spreading, swelling, or pus—seek medical evaluation promptly. A healthcare professional may prescribe a topical antibiotic or oral medication.
Fifth, decontaminate the environment to stop re‑infestation:
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and mattresses thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Treat pet animals, if present, with a veterinarian‑approved flea control product, as pets are common reservoirs.
- Apply an environmental spray or fogger containing an insect growth regulator (IGR) to cracks, baseboards, and pet sleeping areas, following safety guidelines.
Finally, implement preventive measures. Use regular flea preventatives on pets, maintain clean living spaces, and perform periodic checks of personal hair and skin, especially after outdoor activities in flea‑prone areas.
By combining mechanical removal, proper skin hygiene, targeted topical agents, medical oversight for complications, and comprehensive environmental control, the infestation can be eradicated and recurrence minimized.