Can Lice Travel on Flies?
WouterLice do not travel on flies, but they can be transported from head to head, as long as there’s contact between the human head and the infected person’s body. The best way to avoid the risk of contracting head lice is to avoid sharing personal items and make sure all household members are treated. It’s also important to keep personal items and hair brushes clean. You should wash them thoroughly and dry them on a hot cycle in the dryer. If washing isn’t possible, you can place these items in a plastic bag for two weeks to kill any lice. Soaking your hairbrushes in hot water is also helpful in killing lice.
Although flies are the most common vector of lice, researchers have discovered that bird lice can travel on these insects. They have been found on pigeons and other birds, and they’re likely to occur in the Americas. In a study, researchers separated infected pigeons from non-infested doves, and counted the number of lice on the birds for three years. The researchers found that wing lice traveled from infected pigeons to infested doves, while body lice did not.
Although head lice aren’t dangerous and can’t travel on flies, they can travel on other objects that touch the head, including hats and clothing. These insects can live for only one to two days without feeding, so they can spread easily from person to person. The common misconception about head lice is that it’s a sign of poor hygiene, but in reality, head lice can affect people of all races, genders, and ages.
