Head lice are parasitic insects that live in the hair of their human host. The Directors of Health Promotion and Education estimate that six to 12 million people are infected with head lice each year. These numbers indicate that lice are common among people, and according to the New York City of Health and Mental Hygiene, school aged girls are more likely to get lice, due to sharing of hair accessories.
Cause
Head lice are spread by human contact with someone who has head lice. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, head lice cannot be transferred by animals, as lice has to live on a human host. Lice do not fly or hop, and can only crawl. This makes it difficult to develop a lice infection without direct contact. Lice are usually spread by using the same hat or comb from an infected person, but can also be spread by long term close contact like bus rides.
Symptoms
Lice can cause itching, redness or small bumps on the scalp. The FamilyDoctor.org website claims that bumps may also be on the neck and shoulders. If a lice infection is suspected, there will usually be lice eggs attached to the hair follicles. These eggs, also known as nits, are oval and can be white or yellow. If one member of the family has lice, others are at risk of getting them as well. Even if symptoms are not present, you should check your whole family well to assure that only one member is infected.
Treatment
Treatment of lice can be done with over the counter shampoos and lotion. Because lice are capable of quick movement, it is possible that lice can be transferred from the infected hair to your hands and arms if you are treating your child. Head lice cannot live for long away from the scalp, so infestations from treatment are uncommon, but gloves should be worn and care should be taken to avoid exposure. The Directors of Health Promotion and Education recommend that you check family members and yourself for several weeks following treatment to assure that all lice are gone.
Precautions
Over the counter medications can treat head lice, but you should still check with a physician before starting any treatment. Your provider may want to treat you or your child differently, especially if you have any allergies or may be pregnant. Make sure to follow all instructions on the medication before using any products, as this will minimize many risks, including risk of lice infestation in your own hair.
Prevention
To prevent the spread of lice, make sure to avoid sharing items that may contact someones hair. Do not contact a lice infected individual and make sure to routinely check for lice if an outbreak has been established. Kids with lice infestations have routinely been asked to stay away from school, but according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, this may be unfair and unnecessary.
