Fleas are always a known nemesis to our pets. We do everything we can to keep them protected from these pesky little biters but what about us? Flea bites on humans do happen so are they capable of living on us as well? Can fleas live on humans? We will look and explore this unpleasant possibility!
What Are Fleas Preferred Hosts
When a flea has a choice between a human and an animal host, they will choose the animal host. One reason for this is because fleas know if they have an animal host with fur or feathers, they can better lay their eggs and reproduce. They also know if they are on an animal host, they are less likely to be disturbed. With humans there is more of a chance of them being knocked off. We are not ideal for their reproduction.
Types of Fleas
While there are approximately 2,000 types of fleas the most prevalent are cat and dog fleas. There is one species of flea that does prefer human hosts, but they are rarely found in the United States. This flea is the Pulex Irritans. While there are preferences for fleas they do not discriminate and if no other food source is available, they will go outside of their preferred meal.
Infectious Diseases from Fleas
Flea bites are not only annoying they can potentially cause disease. There are certain states that are more susceptible to different types of disease. In the western states the most common flea transmitted disease is the plague. For the southern states people are more susceptible to typhus. Furthermore, there is always potential for an allergic reaction if you are sensitive to the bite. You should look for signs of irritation, hives, or itching that is more intense than it should be for the bite. If you have any of these symptoms or common diseases spread from fleas, you will want to contact a medical professional.
Getting Rid of Infestation
If you suspect, you have a flea infestation in your home there are some things you can do to help eliminate them. You would want to ensure that any bedding your pet has is washed in hot water. If there are any toys that are made of cloth you would also want to wash them. You would also want to vacuum and ensure you dump the debris in a plastic bag away from your home if possible. You also would want to consider insecticides or contact a professional exterminator to help eradicate them so that you and your furry friends do not become reinfested.
Preferences for Pests
As you can see fleas will prefer animal hosts over humans but if one isn’t available humans are fair game! Fleas can spread disease to humans and cause potential allergic reactions as well. If you suspect, you are infested with fleas there are numerous things you can do to eliminate the infestation and give yourself peace of mind! We hope this helps answer your questions about what fleas’ preferences are!