Does Head Lice Affect Adults?

The question of “Does head lice affect adults?” is often posed by young children, but it is possible for adults to get infected, too. While children are more likely to be infected, adults can catch the parasite through close contact with infected children. In fact, if you are a parent or childcare provider, you may have a higher risk of getting infected.

Adult lice live for about two weeks and lay up to five eggs per day. These eggs are small and oval-shaped and are often difficult to detect. These tiny eggs are often white or yellow in color. Sometimes they are mistaken for dandruff or scabs. But lice do not live longer than two days without feeding on human blood.

If you suspect that you have head lice, the first step is to consult with your healthcare provider. The doctor can prescribe a medication to kill the lice and its eggs. You can also try some over-the-counter medications, but make sure that you follow the instructions closely. Many of these medications can have side effects.

Adults can also contract head lice, especially when they have close contact with children. If you are a parent, you are especially at risk of catching the infection if you have been in close contact with children. Therefore, it is important to know about the risk factors and learn how to avoid being a victim.