How Do Head Lice Originate?

Body lice and head lice are both parasites that feed on the human scalp. They are the main cause of the human head lice epidemic and the lice that cause these two diseases are closely related. Although they share the same ancestor, head lice and body lice have different physiology and geographic distributions.

Head lice are passed from one person to another through contact with infected clothing and head-to-head contact. They can also be spread from infested bedding, towels, and hair brushes. While personal hygiene has little to do with how head lice get from person to person, it is important to keep personal items away from infested people to prevent them from spreading.

Traditionally, children with head lice were kept out of school. However, many doctors do not recommend this practice anymore. Instead, kids with head lice should stay at school until the end of the day and go home to get treated. During this time, it is important to avoid head-to-head contact with other children. Children should also try to keep their hair up, such as putting it in a ponytail or braided bun.

Once lice are infested, they are spread through public places. Lice are not able to jump or fly, so they can only transfer from person to person. Head-to-head contact is the most common way to spread the infection. It’s also important to remember that lice are parasitic and cannot survive without a human host.