What are head lice?
Head lice are parasitic, wingless insects that need a human-like host to complete their life cycle.
What is the name given to lice infestation?
Lice infestation of humans is a very common condition called pediculosis.
Can there be lice infestation in different places on the body?
yes. The louse can lodge in several places, such as:
- scalp
- body
- Eyelashes
- Pubic Region
Where does the infestation occur most often?
On the head.
Do lice fly from head to head?
No. Lice don't have wings, so the louse doesn't fly. Infestation mainly results from close contact between hairs or through the sharing of infected objects such as hats, caps, pillows or brushes.
Who can be affected by a pediculosis?
This problem mainly affects school-age children, but it can strike anyone.
How do I know I have head lice?
The appearance of lice can manifest itself by itching of the head, although this can occur only a few weeks after the start of the infestation. When they prick the scalp to feed, they inject a kind of saliva, which causes pruritus (itching).
Secondary wounds may appear. Head lice are also visible, almost always on the back of the neck and behind the ears, as the temperature and humidity conditions in these areas are favourable to them.
How does the infestation develop?
Infestation occurs through direct contact with infected hair or by the use of combs, hats or other hair ornaments of someone infected. A louse lays 8 to 12 eggs a day – these are the well-known nits. After 7 to 10 days, new lice are born, which after about 3 weeks reach adulthood and can then lay more eggs.
The louse lives an average of 30 days, but survives less than 24 hours outside the host.
Does transmission occur by sharing objects?
yes. Head lice infestation can occur through the sharing of personal objects such as combs, hats, pillows and hair ornaments.
Is lice and nit the same thing?
Nits are the eggs of lice, which can be seen as tiny balls that cling tightly to the base of the hair. Nits accompany hair growth and in this way can be found at some distance from the scalp, depending on how long the infestation lasts.
Is it possible to prevent a lice infestation?
No. The best way to prevent it is to be vigilant and avoid direct contact with infested hair. In addition, it is important to teach children that they should not use other people's combs or hats, nor lend them their own.
As a surveillance, you may choose to go through a fine-tooth comb weekly, preferably on Friday to do the treatment during the weekend.
Do lice prefer unhygienic hair?
No. Head lice adhere best to clean hair without grease or residue. However, poor hair hygiene can then lead to the appearance of more serious infections. Washing and combing your hair allows you to expel some parasites from the scalp.
Is long hair more prone to lice?
yes. Long hair is also a major transmitter of lice, as long hair makes it easier to come into contact with other heads.
What are the possible treatments to get rid of head lice?
The most effective treatment is the application of specific antiparasitics in the form of shampoo, solution, gel, cream or lotion. Treatments with home products are usually not effective.
What are the general recommendations?
To avoid lice infestation, you should:
- Follow the application instructions of the products
- repeat the treatment at least 1 time after 7 to 10 days
- After the treatment, comb the hair that is still damp with an appropriate comb
- Wash thoroughly with hot water and replace affected clothing and bedding. Items that cannot be washed can be placed in airtight plastic bags for two weeks to kill lice
Preventive treatments are not recommended.
Where can I buy antiparasitics?
In pharmacies you can find this treatment without a prescription, but advice from a doctor or pharmacist is recommended.
Ask your pharmacist for advice on the correct use of the product and its effectiveness. You must follow the instructions, namely regarding the duration of treatment and the time interval between applications. This is because it is recommended to repeat the treatment 7 or 10 days later, as this is how long it takes for a nit to be born. The 1st application mainly kills adult and young lice. The 2nd application, on the other hand, kills the lice that, in the meantime, have left the nits.
It is important to remember that the use of this treatment in excess is harmful, and these products are only to treat and not to prevent.
Source: SNS 24