Flea Allergies in Humans

Fleas are microscopic pests common to canines and felines. Flea bites can trigger allergic reactions in hypersensitive pets and humans that can lead to allergy discomfort and infection.

Identification

• Flea bites resemble tiny pimples or clusters of raised bumps on the skin, often accompanied by a circular red irritation that surrounds the affected bite area.

Effects

• Flea allergies in humans are particularly common in sensitized children, causing symptoms of severe itching and irritation due to an adverse response to flea saliva from bites.

Function

• Eliminating fleas from a home requires thorough cleaning, dusting and vacuuming of upholstery, flooring, bedding and textiles. Aggressive treatments such as setting off flea bombs will assist in fully eradicating a home of infestations.

Prevention/Solution

• Treating family pets, who involuntarily act as hosts for fleas, by providing flea and tick dips, flea collars and monthly topical applications of Frontline or Advantage, effectively reduces flea outbreaks that cause human flea allergies.

Considerations

• Humans with flea allergies can reduce symptoms by applying topical antihistamine ointments, creams and sprays to bites and rashes, and take oral antihistamines and antibiotics to relieve itching and infection associated with flea allergies.