Diseases Transmitted by Flea Bites: Risks, Symptoms, and Prevention

Diseases from Flea Bites

• Cat Scratch Disease (Bartonella henselae): Fever, chills, headache, fatigue, swollen lymph node.
• Murine Typhus (Rickettsia typhi): Fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, rash.
• Tularemia (Francisella tularensis): Fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, skin ulcer at bite site.
• Plague (Yersinia pestis): Fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes; fatal if untreated.

Other Effects

Flea bites also cause skin irritation, itching, swelling, and potential secondary infections.

Prevention

• Wear long pants, sleeves, socks outdoors; tuck pants into socks.
• Use DEET-based repellent.
• Treat pets for fleas.
• Keep home and yard clean.

If Bitten

Wash with soap and water, apply antibiotic ointment. See a doctor if symptoms of flea-borne disease develop.