Head Lice
(Also known as nits)
Head lice are tiny insects that live in hair, feeding on blood and causing itching. They are most commonly found in children, but anyone can become infested. Although head lice are not harmful, they can be a nuisance and cause discomfort.
Head lice are tiny insects that live in hair, feeding on blood and causing itching. They are most commonly found in children, but anyone can become infested. Although head lice are not harmful, they can be a nuisance and cause discomfort.
You might have head lice if you notice:
Persistent itching or scratching of the scalp
Small, white eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts close to the scalp
Crawling lice on hair or scalp
- Close contact with a person with head lice
- Children attending school or daycare where head lice infestations spread easily
- Sharing items like combs, hairbrushes, or towels
- Persistent itching or scratching of the scalp, caused by the lice bites
- Small, white eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts close to the scalp
- Crawling lice or their tiny, sesame seed-sized eggs (nits) visible on the scalp or hair
- Use over-the-counter medicated shampoos or lotions specifically designed to kill head lice and their eggs
- Remove nits from the hair shafts using a fine-toothed comb after treatment to prevent reinfestation
- Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water to kill any remaining lice or eggs
- Inform close contacts, such as family members or classmates, to check for head lice to prevent further spread
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