Some of the Most Common Questions About Lice

Before you can begin an effective treatment regimen for lice whether on a personal or organizational level, you need to be sure that you have your facts straight. Take a look at some of the facts surrounding this unpleasant phenomenon. After brushing up on the necessary information, click here to learn more about the best treatment for lice. Eliminating and then preventing the recurrence of lice begins with the right information.

 

What Are They and How Do They Get Passed?

 

What, exactly, are lice? These parasitic insects live off of the blood of humans, feeding several times a day. They latch onto hairs and are most commonly found on the scalp, eyebrows, and even eyelashes of people. The insects do not have wings, but they can jump. There are some common misconceptions about the transfer of lice. For example, some people worry that pets will transfer the insects from home to home. Others may believe that swimming can spread lice.Neither of these scenarios are accurate. The most common way for children (or adults) to become infected is by through head-to-head contact. This might happen when children are playing contact sports or even during sleep overs. Although less common, lice can also be passed when sharing personal belongings, such as hats and combs.

 

What Are the Signs of Head Lice?

 

It can actually take a couple of weeks before your child starts to notice tickling or itching. If you hear that lice have been a problem at the school or in your neighborhood, you should start watching out for the pests even if your children haven’t complained. Look for tiny bugs about the size and shape as sesame seeds. The eggs will be securely attached to the hair follicle, close to the scalp, often behind the ears and at the back of the head. If left to multiply, the insects can cause irritability at night (when the bugs are most active) and sores on the head. While lice aren’t carriers of disease, those sores can become infected by bacteria on the scalp.

 

How to Treat a Lice Problem

 

What is the best treatment for lice? If you watch out for the parasites each day as you comb or brush your child’s hair, you should be able to spot the problem while it is still small. The very best thing you can do to curb the spread of lice on your child’s head is to comb out and remove the nits and any live bugs. Use a chemical treatment to help you contain the problem. These products should be used sparingly and according to the instructions for the health and safety of your family. Some schools may require that you prove that you’ve used the product before your child is allowed back to school.

 

Will Washing Prevent Lice?

 

It’s a misconception that children who are well-groomed won’t be affected by lice. These children can and often are infected with the parasites. However, parents who are vigilant in the grooming of their children are likely to catch sight of the pests before they become a big problem.