Fleas rarely establish long-term colonies on human hosts, but they will bite when preferred hosts, like pets, are unavailable or during severe infestations. While finding fleas on yourself can be alarming, these pests do not thrive in human hair or on skin the way they do in animal fur. The bites you receive are usually a temporary symptom of a larger environmental problem that needs to be addressed. The immediate priority is to physically remove any fleas that are currently on your body and clothing to prevent further irritation and spread.
Immediate Steps for Physical Removal
The most effective first step is to shower using copious amounts of soap and water to dislodge and drown the pests. Any standard shampoo or body wash can be used, as the soap’s primary function is mechanical removal and disrupting the flea’s waxy exoskeleton. This disruption causes the flea to dehydrate or plugs up its breathing tubes. Lather thoroughly, paying special attention to the hair and body hair, as fleas may temporarily reside there.
Using a fine-toothed tool, such as a nit comb or a dedicated flea comb, while your hair is wet and lathered is highly recommended. The close spacing of the comb’s teeth physically traps and pulls the fleas from your hair and scalp. Immediately dunk the comb into a bowl of hot, soapy water after each pass to ensure captured fleas are killed. Repeat this process until you no longer find any fleas on the comb.
Thorough rinsing is important, but the water temperature does not need to be scalding hot. The combination of the soap dissolving the flea’s protective layer and the water drowning the pest is what makes this method effective. Once you are out of the shower, gently towel yourself dry, checking the towel for any stray fleas before tossing it into the laundry.
Sanitizing Clothing and Personal Fabrics
Clothing and fabrics that have been in contact with the infested area must be treated immediately to prevent reintroduction of fleas. All worn clothing, towels used after the shower, pajamas, and contaminated bedding should be stripped off and placed directly into the washing machine. Avoid placing these items in a laundry hamper, as this can spread the infestation.
The goal of laundering is to expose the pests to heat, which kills adult fleas, larvae, and eggs. Wash the fabrics using the highest water temperature setting safe for the material, generally aiming for at least 140°F (60°C). Following the wash cycle, dry the items on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes, as the dry heat is effective at killing any remaining life stages.
For items that cannot be washed or exposed to high heat, such as shoes or delicate clothing, seal them in an airtight plastic bag. Leave the sealed items outside or in a freezer for several days, as this isolation and extreme temperature change will kill the fleas. This method keeps the infestation contained until the source is resolved.
Short-Term Personal Prevention
Once you are clean, you can take steps to make yourself less appealing as a temporary host while the home infestation is being managed. Fleas tend to live near the ground and are most likely to bite the lower half of the body. Wearing long pants and tucking the cuffs into your socks creates a physical barrier that prevents the fleas from accessing your skin.
Choosing light-colored clothing is beneficial, as it makes any fleas that jump onto you more visible, allowing for quick removal. The use of insect repellents can offer a temporary defense against being bitten. Products registered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) containing DEET, picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) can be applied to exposed skin or clothing according to the label instructions.
If using a repellent, remember that flea bites often occur where clothing fits tightly, such as around the waist or under elastic bands. Repellents should be applied with caution, especially avoiding the direct application of strong chemicals like DEET to cuts or highly irritated skin. This personal defense is a short-term measure while you focus on eliminating the source of the infestation.
Addressing and Treating Flea Bites
Flea bites on humans typically appear as small, red, raised bumps that are intensely itchy. They often occur in clusters or lines of three or four bites, a pattern sometimes referred to as “breakfast, lunch, and dinner.” The bites are most commonly found on the ankles, feet, and lower legs.
To relieve discomfort and reduce the risk of secondary infection, wash the bite area with soap and water. Resist the urge to scratch the bites, as breaking the skin can introduce bacteria. Over-the-counter anti-itch treatments can provide significant relief from the persistent itching.
Calamine lotion or a one-percent hydrocortisone cream applied directly to the bites can help calm inflammation and itching. Taking an oral antihistamine reduces itchiness and swelling by blocking the body’s reaction to the flea’s saliva. Applying a cold compress or ice pack can further numb the skin and minimize swelling. Seek medical attention if the bites show signs of infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, pus, fever, or severe swelling.