FLEAS AS PESTS TO MAN: AND ANIMALS. 15 
of the bites, more general inflammation may occur, sometimes fol- 
lowed by swelling and occasionally, especially after scratching, by 
ulceration. 
_ Those who are especially annoyed by the bites will find that vari- 
ous cooling applications will give relief. A 3 per cent solution of 
carbolic acid in water applied to the bites will be beneficial, and such 
substances as menthol, camphor, and carbolated vaseline will be 
found to allay the irritation. Jodine in the form of a tincture, if 
applied to the bites, will alleviate the irritation, but should not be 
used by persons afflicted with any form of eczema or applied to the 
tender skin of young children, as it may stimulate the eczemic erup- 
tions or blister the skin, causing undue annoyance. 
