Head lice

              What are head lice?
Head lice are parasitic insects that can live in your hair, eyebrows, and eyelashes. They cannot reproduce
without the warmth of the human head, nor can they survive without the blood provided by the scalp. Head lice should not be confused with body lice or crab lice. They are found only on humans and not on dogs, cats, or
other pets.
What are the symptoms of head lice?
Infestation is defined as harboring any nits, nymphs, or adult head lice. Excessive scratching of the head is the most common symptom of head lice infestation. You may also experience a tickling feeling or sensation
something is in the hair, irritability and sleeplessness, or sores on the head caused by scratching.
How to look for head lice?
Lice eggs, also called nits, are found by close examination of the hair. Nits look like white or dark ovals, and are most noticeable on the back of the neck and around the ears at the very base of the hair shaft. Nits attached
firmly within 1/4 inch of the base of the hair shaft can suggest a person could be infected. Actual lice are seen infre-quently as they move quickly through the hair and avoid light. Lice are about the size of a sesame seed, and while they can crawl, they cannot jump or fly. In cases of severe infestation, head lice may also infest the
eyebrows and eyelashes.
How are head lice spread?
Lice are spread through direct or indirect contact with infested objects or people. When combs or brushes are shared, lice can be transported from one head to another. This is also true for the sharing of hats and other
personal items, or clothing that is used or work on the head. As long as lice or their eggs are living, they can be moved from person to person and cause infestation.
Can head lice cause any illnesses?
Head lice have not been associated with the transmission of any communicable diseases. Secondary bacterial
infections may occur due to scratching of the scalp. If you believe you have an infection, follow up with your healthcare
provider for the appropriate treatment.
How soon after exposure to lice would an infestation be noticed?
It might take two to three weeks to notice the itching associated with infestation, but nits can be seen before the itching begins.
What is the treatment for head lice?
1. Consult with a nurse, pharmacist, or physician and purchase treatment.
2. Read enclosed product directions before initiating treatment.
3. There are products called “pediculicides” which can be bought over the counter or with a prescription from a healthcare provider. Pediculicides contain chemicals that kill lice. These products should be used carefully after reading the directions thoroughly. It is important to remember that NO PEDICULICIDE TREATMENT IS 100%
4. EFFECTIVE. Repeat treatments may be necessary.
5. It is important to remove all lice and nits by hand. You can do this using a lice comb or a comb with very fine teeth. Check all household members at the same time, so that everyone needing it can be treated AT THE SAME TIME.
6. The home environment, such as bedding, clothing, etc., must also be treated at the same time.
Tips for Nit Removal
1. While hair is wet, separate into sections.
2. Comb through each section of hair, and remove all nits with a lice comb or fingernails.
3. Rinse hair and scalp with running water. Allow hair to air dry.
4. Once hair is dry, recheck entire head and remove any remaining nits.
5. Allow the child to put on clean clothes.
Oklahoma State Department of Health
Acute Disease Service
Public Health Fact Sheet
Head Lice
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