What’s Eating You? Update on the Sticktight Flea (Echidnophaga gallinacea)

Abstract

The sticktight flea (Echidnophaga gallinacea), a carrier of plague (Yersinia pestis), rickettsial infections, and other diseases, can be found in warm climates. The flea attaches to a host by embedding its head in the skin for days at a time. Most human infestations occur in individuals who handle infested animals. The sticktight flea can cause delayed erythema of the skin surrounding the embedded head. Common treatments include oral or topical antihistamines or a topical corticosteroid applied to the affected area.