Prevent Flea and Tick Bites on Humans

Preventing flea and tick bites on humans is important. Fleas bites can cause bothersome itching. Tick bites are dangerous for humans, they are known to spread disease. Learn to prevent and treat flea and tick bites with a few simple tips.

Prevent Flea Bites on Humans

Pet owners know that they must be wary of fleas and often take measures to prevent flea infestation with their pets. Several species of fleas also bite humans; preventing flea bites on humans is equally as important. A human flea bite leaves an itching sensation, often accompanied by a raised red spot where the flea punctured the skin. Flea bites will often occur in clusters, causing even more discomfort for the victim. Fleas breed in large numbers and require warm temperatures and humidity to thrive. Prevention of flea bites is as simple as making sure that your home isn't a good environment for continuation of the flea life cycle.

Tips for Flea Bite Prevention

-Use insect repellant (with Deet) if you will be outdoors or around animals that may be infested with fleas
-Treat pets with flea preventative products
-Vacuum frequently
-Use dehumidifiers/air conditioners
-Launder all clothing and bedding if there is an infestation of fleas

Treat Flea Bites on Humans

Flea bites are annoying, but aren't usually dangerous. When a person is allergic to flea bites, a rash may break out. If a rash occurs, a physician should be consulted. Over the counter products can be used to treat the itching symptoms associated with flea bites. Hydrocortisone and other anti-itch creams are usually effective in offering relief. Calamine lotion can also be used to treat symptoms of flea bites.

Prevent Tick Bites on Humans

Ticks are blood-sucking arachnids. They prey on animals and humans, waiting for a host in the weeds and grass of wooded areas. Ticks are known to carry and transmit a number of diseases, such as Lyme disease. Avoid tick-infested areas as much as possible. If you will be in the woods, or other areas known to be infested with ticks, use preventative measures to protect yourself from tick bites.

Tips for Tick Bite Prevention

-Wear insect repellant (with Deet)
-Wear light colored protective clothing: long sleeves, pants, boots, long socks, hat
-Tuck shirt into pants
-Tuck pants into socks
-Tape the area where the pants are tucked into the socks
-While walking on trails, walk in the center to avoid brushing up against grass and weeds
-Check for ticks every 2 hours (as they often take a few hours to bite settle in and bite)
-Remove any ticks found on clothing with tape

Treat Tick Bites on Humans

If a tick is found that has already bitten into the skin, remove it promptly using a tweezers. A cloth should be used as a barrier between your skin and the tick if it must be removed with the fingers. Once the tick is grasped, pull straight out. Do not twist the tick. After the tick is removed, place the tick in a container of soapy water or alcohol to dispose of it. Burning the tick or placing it in petroleum jelly is not advised. Wash the site of the tick bite with soap and water. Treat the bite with an antiseptic to prevent infection. Consult your physician if you become ill, making sure to report the tick bite.

Sources Cited:

"Fleas." University of Florida
"Flea." Wikipedia
"Common Ticks." Illinois Department of Health
"Tick." Wikipedia