Observations On The Biting Of Humans By Euhoplopsyllus Glacialis Affinis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) And A Review Of Its Plague-Transmission Potential1

Abstract

Three separate instances are reported in which Euhoplopsyllus glacialis affinis , a flea parasitizing cottontails ( Sylvilagus spp.), was found invading buildings and biting humans. In one instance the plague organism, Yersinia pestis , was isolated from fleas collected by those bitten. A review of published information and epidemiological records and data presented in this study indicate that E. g. affinis is of minimal importance as a plague vector, and that there is little risk of human infection from this flea.