Head Lice – Can They Jump?
WouterDespite the fact that they are quite small, head lice can survive for more than a month on a person’s head. They can be easily misidentified as dandruff or hair spray droplets. Adult lice live for about 28 days and lay between fifty and one hundred eggs. These eggs are tiny and white and attach to the hair shaft. Unlike dandruff, head lice eggs will not shed, but remain attached to your child’s hair.
While head lice are unable to fly or jump, they do spread through close contact. They are most commonly spread from person to person by direct head-to-head contact, but they can also be spread by sharing personal items. However, household pets do not spread head lice. It is important to keep your head clean and dry to prevent a lice infestation.
Adult head lice are small parasitic insects, about the size of a sesame seed. Lice nymphs are smaller, clear, or blood red. They are hard to remove because the eggs are glued to the hair shaft. It is essential to wash your hair immediately after you find lice. You should also check for nits. These tiny nits are the first symptom of head lice.
Head lice can be spread through the use of bedding, pillows, and other clothing. Be sure to wash any clothing, combs, and towels that the infested person used. Then, be sure to dry everything with hot water. If the infestation is severe, you should immediately contact a health professional.
