Head Lice – Do They Jump?

Head lice are tiny, grayish-white insects that are about the size of a sesame seed. They have oval-shaped heads and flattened bodies. They live for up to 48 hours on a human head before they die. Unlike many other pests, head lice are not able to fly or hop. They only have legs for crawling and grasping hair. Infestations are often spread through repeated head-to-head contact.

While head lice do not fly or jump, they can spread easily from person to person, so you should be careful not to share your pillow or your blanket with someone who has them. Moreover, head lice cannot be caught by pets. Hence, it is recommended that you stay away from infested people and clean your home as much as possible.

When you find a head lice infestation, immediately wash your clothes and other personal items with hot water. It is also recommended to cover your head with a plastic bag for two weeks after the infestation. However, if this does not work, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. These professionals will be able to prescribe a treatment for lice.

Although head lice do not jump, they can jump through clothes. The most common way they spread is through head-to-head contact, but they can be transferred from one person to another through the shared items. They can also be spread through sharing towels, bedding, and other personal items.