Xenopsylla cheopis (RAT FLEA)

Adult:

Spread of black plague 1347-1350:

Image:

Adults:
http://www.k-state.edu/parasitology/625tutorials/Arthropods03.html

Phylogeny: Order Siphonoptera

Metamorphosis: Complete

Geographical location: Cosmopolitan on Rattus spp. rats except in cold climates.

Organs affected: Skin

Symptoms and clinical signs: Dermal irritation.

Diseases transmitted: Bubonic plague. Symptoms of plague include swollen lymph nodes, hemorrhage, mental dullness. Within a relatively short time, patient shows anxiety, delirium, coma and death.

Acral gangrene caused by bubonic plague:

Treatment/control: Antirat campaigns must be preceded by a spraying program to eradicate fleas. Antibiotics are effective against plague.