What should you do if fleas are on you? - briefly
Immediately wash the affected area with hot, soapy water and dry thoroughly. Then apply an over‑the‑counter flea treatment or seek medical advice for appropriate topical medication.
What should you do if fleas are on you? - in detail
If you discover fleas crawling on your skin, act promptly to eliminate the insects and prevent further infestation.
First, remove the parasites physically. Use a fine-toothed comb or a disposable glove to pull each flea from the hair or clothing, placing them in a sealed container. Wash the affected area with warm, soapy water, then rinse thoroughly.
Second, treat your skin to reduce irritation and possible allergic reactions. Apply an over‑the‑counter antihistamine cream or a topical corticosteroid to soothe redness and itching. If you experience a severe reaction, seek medical advice.
Third, decontaminate the environment.
- Launder all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture, then discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Spray a flea‑specific insecticide or use a household insecticide approved for indoor use, following label instructions precisely.
Fourth, address any animal hosts. If pets are present, bathe them with a flea‑comb and a veterinary‑recommended shampoo. Apply a veterinarian‑approved flea preventive product to the animals and consult the vet for a comprehensive treatment plan.
Fifth, monitor for re‑infestation. Check your skin and clothing daily for at least two weeks, repeating the removal and cleaning steps if any new fleas appear.
Finally, adopt preventive measures. Maintain regular grooming of pets, keep living spaces tidy, and use seasonal flea control products as directed. By following these actions, you can eradicate the current problem and reduce the likelihood of future outbreaks.