|
|
 |
What You Need to Know About Head Lice
|
What You Need to Know About Head Lice
|
What are head lice?
Head lice are very tiny, parasitic insects. They live on the scalp and lay eggs (also called “nits”) in the hair. Head lice feed only on human blood, which they require for nourishment. Head lice do not infect pets or livestock.
How common is head lice?
Head lice can affect people of all ages, rich or poor. Head lice do not reflect one’s socioeconomic status or social class. Furthermore, head lice are not signs of uncleanliness. Regular washing of the body or hair will not prevent head lice.
Although head lice can infest humans of any age, they most commonly occur among children that have close contact with each other at school and at play. About 5-10% of all school children contract head lice at one time or another. Head lice ultimately are a community problem.
How are head lice spread?
Head lice are spread from people who have head lice. Direct, head-to-head contact is the main way head lice are spread, as they do not jump or fly. They also may be transmitted by sharing infected items such as hair-care items and clothing.
Why are head lice a problem?
Head lice can be a major pest problem. Infestations can spread quickly among individuals. Head lice are big inconveniences, typically requiring weeks of periodic intervention and surveillance to combat an infestation.
Educators, parents, and children need to understand that absolutely no shame should be associated with having head lice. How school educators handle the situation will greatly affect how the students treat each other. Do not call undue attention to any person having head lice. Anyone can get head lice – even you!
The following websites contain additional information about head lice:
The National Pediculosis Association
The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
Harvard School of Public Health
If you have further questions, you may contact a Public Health Nurse at the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department at (419) 213-4126.
|
|
|
|
