Biology

Fleas are 2 mm long, segmented, six-legged insects with black or brown bodies covered in hairs on their bodies and legs. They are jumping insects, capable of leaping 20 cm vertically and 40 cm horizontally. There are different types of fleas, including animal, human, dust, and bird fleas. They reproduce very quickly, reaching up to 2,000 offspring per week. They lay their eggs scattered in dust, soil, and on the ground. Under suitable temperatures, they develop into fleas within 8-10 days, but this can take up to 80-90 days if the temperature is not sufficient. They suck blood to lay eggs, so they immediately attack animals and humans. They are easily carried into homes as they climb onto living beings. They bite at night, preventing sleep. Bite marks can be observed on the skin as small dots, and their brown dirt stains can be seen on laundry. They are most commonly found and breed in animal resting areas. They transmit typhus and plague.

Control Methods

It is necessary to identify and treat the breeding environment and to treat and clean animals such as cats and dogs. Since the drugs are not effective during the pupal stage, it is normal to see fleas occasionally for up to 15 days after the treatment. They will disappear later, but sometimes re-treatment may be necessary.