How Many Head Lice Do You Have?

If you suspect that you may have head lice, you may be wondering how many head lice you have. While head lice can be embarrassing and annoying, it is highly treatable. It is important to understand that prevention is better than cure. You can prevent lice infestation by following good hygiene practices. In addition to proper hygiene, you can check your clothing, bedding, and walls for live lice. If you find any of these signs, you can seek professional help.

Head lice can live on your hair and are easily spread by close contact with other people. They lay eggs in the scalp and hair. The eggs hatch in seven to 13 days. Lice do not like to live in clean hair, but they can survive in dirty hair. While washing your hair won’t get rid of the lice, it will help prevent an infestation from occurring.

Head lice are a common problem in children. Approximately 6-12 million children in the US are affected every year. Children aged three to 11 years old are most likely to be infested. Parents and teachers are encouraged to conduct lice checks when they notice a problem with their children. It is best to start treatment as soon as you suspect you have a problem.

Head lice are small, grayish-white insects with a flat body and oval heads. Adult head lice will live on your head for up to 30 days. They live by sucking blood from your scalp. If they do not find blood, they will die after one to two days.