Information on head lice

There are many misconceptions about lice that tend to elicit panic. Here are the facts about head lice:

• The head louse, is a parasitic insect that lives close to the human scalp.

• Head lice are annoying but do not spread disease.

• Head lice move by crawling; they cannot hop or fly.

• Head lice are spread by direct contact with the hair of an infested person.

• Cleanliness and personal hygiene have nothing to do with getting head lice.

• Head lice cannot survive for more than 24-36 hours away from the scalp-they do not live on objects.

• The main symptom of head lice is itching/frequent scratching of the scalp.

What do head lice look like?

Head lice have three forms: the egg (also called a nit), the nymph, and the adult.

(See picture below)

Nits -are firmly attached to the hair shaft (will not come off like dandruff). Nits

take 8-9 days to hatch.

Nymphs -are immature lice that hatches from the nit. Nymphs mature into adults about 9–12 days after hatching from the nit.

Adult-The fully grown and developed adult louse is about the size of a sesame seed.

How to treat lice:

Pediculicides are available over the counter for treatment. Be sure to follow the instructions completely.

Prescription medications are also available from your child's pediatrician.

All members of the household should be checked and treated as needed.