How to Get Rid of Sand Fleas on a Human

Sand fleas are crustaceans that are commonly found buried in the sand or soil in regions such as South and Central America. They burrow into the skin of animals and humans, according to the World Health Organization. Once the sand flea is underneath the skin, it feeds on body fluids, which creates a bump the size of a pea within eight to 12 days. Removal of these pests requires forceps or a knife, followed by disinfecting the open wound to prevent infection.

Things You'll Need

• Forceps or sharp knife
• Rubbing alcohol
• Hand sanitizer
• Cotton ball
• Sterile cloth
• Iodine
• Bandage

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Instructions

• 1

  Wipe down the forceps or sharp knife with rubbing alcohol to sterilize it.

• 2

  Disinfect your hands with hand sanitizer. Soak a clean cotton ball with rubbing alcohol. Wipe down the affected area on the skin with the cotton ball.

• 3

  Insert the forceps or the tip of a knife into the skin and carefully remove the sand flea.

• 4

  Blot the area with a sterile cloth to stop any bleeding, and apply two to three drops of iodine to the wound to prevent infection.

• 5

  Cover the wound with a clean bandage.