Can Head Lice Be Seen by the Human Eye?
WouterWhile head lice are unable to be seen with the human eye, it is possible to use a magnifying glass or flashlight to detect them. Lice are tiny, wingless insects that live in the hair. They feed on the blood of humans and lay their eggs in hair near the scalp. You should treat any head lice you suspect immediately.
Generally, adult head lice are one-eighth of an inch long and weigh less than one millimeter. Their body is a tan to grayish-white color. They live up to 30 days on the scalp before dying. Female lice tend to be larger than males and lay about eight eggs a day. These eggs are more visible in dark-colored hair. Lice secrete saliva that prevents the blood from clotting. This causes a stinging and allergic reaction in the person who has head lice. Fortunately, head lice are not dangerous and do not transmit disease.
Infestation occurs through direct contact with an infested person’s head. This means that children should not share beddings, clothing, or pillows with others who have head lice. Furthermore, head lice can survive under water for several hours. Because of this, some treatments are less effective.
Head lice are a common problem that affects people of all classes and socioeconomic statuses. However, it is important to remember that head lice are not caused by poor hygiene. Instead, they are equal opportunity parasites that love both dirty and clean hair. This means that even the wealthiest communities can have infestations. And it is never the fault of one child to have head lice. When you notice a child with head lice, you should treat him or her at once.
