Head Lice

Head lice are one of the most common childhood diseases. Head lice are wingless insects that live on the hair and scalp of humans. The lice eggs are called nits. They are spread easily from one person to another by direct contact. LICE DO NOT JUMP OR FLY. They may not be spread from pets or animals to humans. Anyone may be infected regardless of personal hygiene.

Lice and their nits are found by looking through the hair and on the scalp. The nits are found “glued” on the hair shaft usually close to the scalp. Unlike dandruff or hairspray/ gel build up, they will not slide or brush off the hair shaft. Nits are very small and shaped like a tear drop. It takes about 2 weeks for the baby louse to mature to adult size. Adult lice are about 1/16 to 1/8 of an inch long. Nits/ lice will vary in color from a creamy tan to a grayish brown with darker edges.

Learn more on the CDC Website.