News
James Somper
Sep 24, 2016
Britain is apparently about to be overrun by billions of well-endowed 'super fleas', a pest control company has warned.
With the largest genitalia relative to size of any bug on the planet, the fleas are predicted to soon begin seeking shelter indoors after a summer in which humidity and damp caused numbers to rocket.
Much larger than most existing types of flea, these “super fleas” are believed to have originated from Europe.
Rob Simpson of the Pest Control group Basis Prompt warned that the super fleas will end their hibernation much earlier than expected.
"Fleas which would usually remain dormant for much longer, became active sooner, leading to more prolific breeding and therefore a larger population," he said.
The comments come as pharmacies reported an increase in sales of flea bite cream.
Recently Dr Tim Nuttall, veterinary dermatologist at the University of Liverpool, said the UK flea population has been rising for years but it has leapt dramatically since 2013.
He said that's down almost entirely to the 'cat flea' which, despite its name, will live off dogs, ferrets and humans too.
Doctors have said that flea bites, which generally appear as red spots and are commonly found on the feet and legs should be washed with soap and water and then an antiseptic cream should be applied whilst swellings should be treated with antihistamine cream.
Top 100
The Conversation (0)