Fleas

Fleas are flightless, yellowish brown insects that are approx.

1 May 2021 | 5 Min. Reading Time

Overview

Fleas are flightless, yellowish brown insects that are approx. 3mm long. They live by consuming blood, for which they bite their host. This causes the typical itchy bites on the skin, visible as punctiform areas of bleeding, with a halo around the bite centre. Sometimes the bites appear in a row. Fleabites should not be scratched. If fleas are suspected, the environment and pets should be inspected.

Symptoms

Bites (fleas feeding on blood)
- Punctiform areas of bleeding with a halo around the bite centre
- Usually several bites in groups
- Sometimes the bites also appear in rows
Severe itching

Complications

Bacterial superinfection of the scratched skin (purulent)
Transmission of various diseases, e.g. typhus, bubonic plague (outside Europe)

Causes and treatment

Cause

Bite by some kind of flea
- Human flea (has become rare in Central Europe)
- Cat or dog flea
Fleas
- Approx. 3mm long, yellowish brown insects
- Wingless, legs are used for jumping
For other parasites, see:

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests

Examination of the skin

Possible therapies

Lotio Alba or menthol solution
Topical hydrocortisone cream, if necessary
For severe itching: antihistamine tablets

What can I do myself?

Don't scratch, risk of infection
Apply insect repellent
Pets
- Take them to the vet
- Inspect pets’ bedding and toys
- Put flea collars on them, if necessary
Inspect the environment
- Furniture
- Rooms
- Soft toys, etc.
Boil wash bed linen and clothes
Textiles that can't be washed: store them in the freezer for several days

When to see a doctor?

Infected bites (swollen, purulent, painful)
Fever together with bites
Very severe itching
Allergic reaction to bites
- Extensive skin rash
- Shortness of breath
Veterinarian: suspicion that pet has fleas (e.g. because it often scratches itself)