Where to Find Head Lice

Head lice can be very annoying, but they do not pose any serious health risks. Lice cannot jump or fly and can only be transmitted through close contact with the infested person’s hair. The condition is not associated with poor hygiene and is not caused by the presence of pets. You may experience intense itching and difficulty sleeping. You may even experience sores on your head. The most common way to catch head lice is through head-to-head contact, such as during play or sports. It is also spread by sharing clothing and personal items with the infested person.

During the first few days following the initial infestation, the symptoms of head lice might be delayed. In some cases, it may take up to four to six weeks to develop symptoms. However, if you see an itch within four to six weeks, it could be a sign that you have an infestation.

The first step to treating head lice is to look closely at your child’s hair. Part the hair into small sections and make sure you check each section thoroughly. The live lice may be hiding anywhere, but they are most likely to be near the scalp and behind the ears. They are just as small as a sesame seed and a child with an infestation may have ten to twelve.

While head lice can be very painful, you should know that head lice do not transmit any disease. Even children who go swimming or have regular baths are susceptible to infestations. If you think your child has head lice, don’t send them to school for more than two days. They should be treated as quickly as possible.