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Human fleas
Human fleas, scientifically known as Pulex irritans, are tiny, parasitic insects that can be a nuisance and even a health risk for humans and animals alike. Their common name derives from their occurrences with humans under unsanitary conditions. They are also known to infest pigs and can be found in farm areas. Although they are not as common as other flea species, they are still known to cause discomfort, irritation, and even allergic reactions.
Human fleas are also known carriers of certain diseases and parasites, such as murine typhus and tapeworm. Understanding how to identify and get rid of human fleas can help protect your home and family from a flea infestation.
Human flea identification
What do human fleas look like?
Human fleas are tiny, wingless insects usually measuring around one to four millimeters long. They are dark brown to reddish-brown and have flat, narrow bodies. Their long legs are specially adapted for jumping, allowing them to move quickly from one host to another. The human flea is often distinguished from other flea species by the lack of any combs (or "ctenidia") on its head and the rounded shape of its head.
For more information on flea identification and characteristics, see our article What do fleas look like?
Signs of a human flea infestation
The first signs of fleas may be flea bites on the skin, which often appear as small, red, itchy bumps. You might also notice adult fleas jumping in your living space or see flea droppings (tiny black specks) in bedding or furniture. Flea larvae, which are small and white, may also be visible in dark areas where fleas hide.
Habitat, diet, life cycle and bites
Human fleas thrive in warm, humid environments like homes, bedding, and upholstery, often near humans and pets. Their life cycle enables them to reproduce quickly, while their bites cause itching and irritation, sometimes leading to allergic reactions.
Where do human fleas live?
Human fleas can be found in various environments, including homes, animal bedding, and upholstery. They prefer warm, humid conditions and often hide in areas where pets and humans spend a lot of time. Human fleas can also be found on other animals like dogs, cats, and wildlife, making it essential to check your pets and home environment.
Diet
Adult fleas feed on the blood of their hosts, including humans and animals, for survival and reproduction (as female fleas need a blood meal before they can lay viable eggs). Their biting can cause discomfort and skin irritation. Human fleas can survive for months without a blood meal, making it necessary to treat all areas thoroughly during flea control treatments.
Life cycle
Human fleas undergo four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Female fleas lay tiny white eggs, which fall into carpets, cracks, and bedding. These eggs hatch into larvae, which feed on organic matter before turning into pupae. Pupae eventually emerge as adult fleas, ready to feed and reproduce. Depending on environmental conditions, the life cycle can take several weeks to several months.
Bites
Flea bites are typically itchy, small red bumps that can appear on the ankles, legs, or any exposed skin. Some people may experience an allergic reaction to flea bites, leading to increased itching, swelling, and even blistering.
Are human fleas dangerous?
Human fleas can pose risks beyond discomfort and itching. In addition to causing allergic reactions, human fleas can transmit diseases and parasites, including murine typhus and tapeworm. While cases are rare, these health risks make it essential to control any flea infestation promptly.
How to get rid of human fleas
To get rid of fleas, start by thoroughly vacuuming floors, furniture, and carpets to remove fleas, larvae, and eggs. Wash bedding and clothing in hot water to eliminate any pests. Over-the-counter flea treatments can help, but infestations often require professional flea control to ensure complete removal. Flea control experts can treat areas that are challenging to reach and prevent future infestations.
Human flea prevention tips
Prevent human fleas by sealing cracks in walls and floors and maintaining a tidy outdoor space. Use flea prevention treatments on pets and stay proactive with regular inspections to reduce the risk of fleas appearing in your home. For added peace of mind, contact Ehrlich pest control for expert advice and professional assistance in keeping your home safe.
Need help with human flea control?
If you’re struggling to get rid of human fleas, our pest control services can offer targeted, effective solutions. Fleas are resilient pests, and their tiny size and rapid life cycle make them challenging to eliminate entirely. Professionals like Ehrlich have the experience, training, and tools to address infestations at every stage of the flea life cycle, from eggs to adult fleas.
By partnering with our flea control service, you can expect thorough treatments that target hidden areas like carpets, furniture, and cracks where fleas often hide. Our experts use specialized products and techniques not available to the public, ensuring that even the toughest infestations are handled safely and effectively. They can also provide guidance on preventative measures to help you maintain a comfortable and safe environment.
Frequently asked questions
Can humans get fleas?
Yes, humans can get fleas. Although fleas are more commonly associated with animals, the human flea, Pulex irritans, can target humans, although it can also infest other animals.
How do you know if you have human fleas?
Common signs of human fleas include itchy bites, visible adult fleas jumping in your home, and small black specks (flea droppings) in bedding or carpets. Bites are typically found on the lower legs or ankles.
How rare are human fleas?
Human fleas are less common than pet fleas but can still be found in homes, rural areas, farms with pigs, and other areas near infested animals or nearby wildlife that carry these pests.
Can fleas live off of humans?
Yes, human fleas can live off human blood, although they can also feed on other mammals. However, human blood alone may not sustain an infestation long-term, which is why fleas are often found in homes with pets or where wildlife has access.
Can fleas live in your hair?
While it is uncommon, human fleas can bite the scalp, although they generally prefer other body areas. Fleas are more likely to bite lower body parts, but if they are present in high numbers, they may reach the hair and scalp.
For effective flea control and prevention, consider enlisting professional pest control services.