How Fast Can Head Lice Spread?

One of the first things that you should do when you suspect your child or yourself of having head lice is to check your hair and scalp regularly. You might see nits, which are small eggs that are laid by the louse. While these eggs are difficult to detect, they can be seen if they have been left on the scalp for more than a week. In some cases, you can even find adult lice on your head.

Adult lice are grayish-white and tan in color. These tiny insects lay their eggs about two days after mating. After 35 days, they die and are no longer present. Lice spread most often through hair-to-hair contact and are not caused by poor hygiene. However, people who live in close quarters with many others should be extra cautious because they are a possible source of transmission for others.

It is important to remember that lice take time to multiply and cause itchiness. This reaction is caused by the lice’s saliva, which causes the skin to become sensitized. Symptoms of lice are most likely to develop two to three days after the infestation has started. However, if you have had an infestation in the past, you’ll probably notice the symptoms much faster.

The best way to prevent the spread of head lice is to wash clothes in hot water with detergent before wearing them. This will kill any eggs that are still attached to the clothing. Secondly, it is important to keep your child’s head covered during the infection. Lastly, you should keep your child away from people who have had contact with an infected child.