What to do if a person is bitten by fleas? - briefly
Clean the bite sites with mild soap and water, then apply an anti‑itch or antihistamine cream to alleviate irritation; keep the area covered and monitor for increasing redness, swelling, or fever, and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms worsen.
What to do if a person is bitten by fleas? - in detail
When flea bites appear on the skin, the first priority is to stop the itching and prevent infection. Clean the affected area with mild soap and lukewarm water, then pat dry. Applying an antiseptic solution such as povidone‑iodine or a diluted hydrogen peroxide rinse reduces bacterial colonisation.
After cleansing, use a topical anti‑itch agent. Options include:
- Hydrocortisone 1 % cream, applied thinly to each bite up to three times daily for no more than a week.
- Calamine lotion or a menthol‑based gel, providing a cooling effect that eases discomfort.
- Oral antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine 10 mg or diphenhydramine 25 mg) for moderate to severe pruritus; follow dosage instructions on the label.
If swelling, redness, or pain intensifies, consider a short course of non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen 200 mg every 6‑8 hours, provided there are no contraindications.
Monitor the lesions for signs of secondary infection: increasing warmth, pus, or expanding erythema. Should any of these develop, seek medical evaluation promptly; a clinician may prescribe topical antibiotics (e.g., mupirocin) or oral therapy if required.
Prevent further exposure by treating the source. Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and pet bedding thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward. Apply an appropriate flea control product to pets, following veterinary recommendations, and consider a residual environmental insecticide if infestation persists.
Maintain skin integrity by avoiding scratching. Keep nails trimmed short and consider wearing light cotton gloves at night if compulsive scratching occurs. Hydrate the skin with a fragrance‑free moisturizer to support barrier recovery.
In summary, immediate cleansing, anti‑itch treatment, infection surveillance, and eradication of the flea population constitute the comprehensive response to flea bites on a human host.