What Is The Best Way To Keep Fleas In Jacksonville At Bay?
In North Carolina, it is becoming more common to see fleas all year long. These tiny insects can sneak into your home and cause a full-blown infestation before you even realize that they are there. If you have a flea problem, you may need the help of a knowledgeable Jacksonville pest control specialist in order to eliminate them. At B&T Pest Control, we use a combination of knowledge and specialty techniques to eliminate bed bugs for good.
What Are Fleas?
Fleas are tiny insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. There are several types of fleas in Jacksonville, but all fleas will bite you, leaving behind an itchy, red bug bite. Some of the most common types of fleas that are found in this area include:
- Dog flea
- Cat flea
- Ground squirrel flea
- Oriental rat flea
Fleas are usually named after the animal on which they are commonly found. However, all fleas can be found on any animal. In fact, cat fleas are the most common type of fleas in this area and can be found on dogs and rodents.
Are Fleas Harmful To Humans?
Fleas can be harmful to both humans and animals. They are known carriers of several diseases and viruses that can be passed on to humans when they bite them. Some of the illnesses that you can catch from fleas include:
- Typhus: Flea-borne typhus is usually transmitted to people by an infected cat flea. However, rat fleas have also been known to spread this deadly disease.
- Tapeworms: All fleas have been known to spread tapeworms. If a person or animal accidentally swallows an infected flea, a tapeworm could start to grow in their stomach. All people are susceptible to getting tapeworms from fleas, but it is more commonly seen in small children and pets.
- Cat scratch disease: Also known by its scientific name, Bartonella henselae infection, is a bacterial infection. Many people get this infection after they are scratched by a cat that an infected flea has bitten.
Another way that these insects can be harmful is by leaving irritating flea bites on your skin. A flea bite is extremely itchy. If you scratch the bite too much, you could end up with a potentially dangerous skin infection.
All The Ways Fleas Find Their Way Into Our Homes
Fleas are surprisingly good jumpers; their small legs allow them to jump up to 13 inches. Since they are so small, many animals and humans will stand or sit beside a flea without even knowing it.
One of the most common ways that fleas find their way into your house is by hiding in your pet's fur and hitching a ride. They can also jump onto your clothing or into your bag or purse when you are in a public place. Sometimes, fleas can be found on secondhand furniture and clothing. Because they are so small and able to stay out of sight, you probably won´t even know that you have fleas in your home until you have a full infestation.
The Best Way To Get Rid Of A Flea Infestation
A flea infestation is common in Jacksonville, and the best way to get rid of fleas is to call a professional pest control company. At B&T Pest Control, we go above and beyond to find and eliminate all of the fleas in your home for good. Contact us today for complete flea control.