Who can get lice?

While lice infestations are most common among children aged 3 to 11 years old, especially those in close-contact environments like schools or daycare centers, the truth is that lice can affect anyone. Family members of young children are at a higher risk due to frequent physical interaction, but lice don’t discriminate based on age, hygiene, or lifestyle. Since lice spread through direct head-to-head contact, anyone in close proximity to an infested person—whether during play, sports, sharing personal items like combs, or even sleepovers—can catch lice. It’s important to remember that lice infestations are not a sign of poor hygiene; they thrive simply by moving from one host to another, regardless of cleanliness. Therefore, anyone, from children to adults, can be affected if exposed.

Signs & symptomsof a Lice Infestation

Itchiness:
70-80%

Up to 70-80% of people with head lice experience itching due to allergic reactions to lice bites. However, it may not be immediate, especially for first-time infestations​.

Feeling of Movement: Some people report a sensation of something crawling or moving in their hair. This is a common symptom as lice move quickly across the scalp.
Sleep Disruptions: Lice are more active in the dark, which can cause restless nights and interrupted sleep, particularly in children who are most affected.
Scalp Lesions: Continuous scratching can cause sores and lesions on the scalp, which may become painful and worsen over time if left untreated.
Risk of Infection: Open sores from scratching can become infected, leading to further complications. If untreated, a lice infestation can impact a child’s overall well-being and even affect their concentration and performance at school.

what are lice and nits?

Head lice are tiny parasites that live on the scalp and feed on human blood, needing a continuous supply to survive. They cling to hair shafts close to the scalp, causing itching and discomfort. Lice can infest anyone, regardless of hygiene, and may prefer certain individuals based on blood composition.

Nits are the eggs laid by lice. They are small, oval, and white or yellowish, attaching firmly to hair shafts near the scalp. Nits are often confused with dandruff but are distinct due to their attachment and location. Their presence signifies an active infestation as they hatch into new lice.

How to prevent lice?

01
contact avoid

Avoid Close Contact

Prevent head-to-head contact and maintain distance from individuals with lice.

02
secure hair

Secure Hair

Keep hair tied up in a bun, ponytail, or braids, or cover it with a scarf.

03
sharing

Avoid Sharing Items

Do not share brushes, combs, towels, hats, scarves, or hair accessories.

04
check

Regular Checks

Inspect your children’s hair weekly with a professional lice comb.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lice

Here, we address common questions and misconceptions about lice to help you understand more about these pests, how they spread, and how to manage them effectively.

know more

Do lice jump or fly?

No, lice don't jump or fly. They are fast crawlers and can move from one head to another in seconds. Contamination occurs through direct head-to-head contact. Anyone in close contact with someone who has lice is at risk.

Do lice prefer certain people?

Lice don't discriminate by age, gender, or social class. They need only heat and blood to survive and reproduce. Therefore, anyone can get lice. Adults should also be cautious and check for symptoms, as no one is immune.

Can lice cause diseases?

Lice themselves are not a disease nor a major health risk. However, scratching due to itchiness can lead to skin injuries. In severe cases, lice can cause anemia, sleep disorders, and concentration issues in children.

Can lice survive underwater?

Yes, lice can survive underwater for up to eight hours. They hold tightly and are not easily washed away, even with chlorine in swimming pools. To prevent spreading, avoid sharing towels or other personal items.

Is getting lice a sign of poor hygiene or related to hair length?

No, lice are not related to poor hygiene. They don't care about how often hair is washed or brushed. Lice feed on blood and only need a small amount of hair close to the scalp to thrive and lay eggs.

Chat