Pediculosis (Lice)

General Characteristics:

Lice are wingless parasitic insects that feed on blood and infest the hairy parts of the human body. There are three types of lice associated with human infestation; head, pubic and body lice. The most common species found on the student population are head and pubic lice. Body lice are problems in areas of extreme overcrowding and poor sanitation. Both head and pubic lice will attach their eggs (nits) to the base of a hair shaft (body lice attach their eggs onto the clothing of the host) where they hatch in six to nine days. Lice require warm temperatures and can survive as long as 7-10 days away from the host (pubic lice survive 2 days off the host). Adult lice live for 20-30 days and will produce 5 eggs per day during this period. Like their name implies, head lice are found in the scalp area, pubic lice are generally found in the course hairs of the pubic area but can also be found in eyebrows and armpits. Head and pubic lice are equipped with six claw capped legs that are designed for hanging onto and moving through hair.

This picture represents adult head lice, male and female, and their nits, or eggs. The nits are attached to a human hair. The picture is of course substantially enlarged compared to the real organisms, which are described as being "the size of a sesame seed" in some publications. Pubic lice are somewhat smaller.

Control and Prevention:

Head lice (2-3mm with a flat elongated body) are spread by the communal use of combs, brushes, hats, or personal contact. Control is achieved by washing the hair with a shampoo that contains a pesticide. There are many brands of lice control shampoos that can be obtained over the counter at most pharmacies. Combs, brushes, clothing, and bedding should be washed in hot water and dried normally.
Pubic lice (1.5 to 2mm with a crab like body) are usually spread by sexual contact but crowding clothing together in lockers or dorms cannot be discounted. Control is achieved by washing the infested hair with a shampoo that contains a pesticide. Clothing and bedding should be washed in hot water and dried normally.
Body lice (similar to Head lice but more robust) are spread by the sharing of unwashed clothing and in overcrowded living conditions. Control is achieved by washing the body with a shampoo or soap that contains a pesticide. Clothing and bedding should be washed in hot water and dried normally.

Note: Disease transmission is rare with head and pubic lice. Body lice on the other hand are proven vectors of several serious diseases during overcrowded conditions. Individuals suspecting a lice infestation should be examined by a physician and have any lice specimens identified.

If there are any questions concerning lice contact Robert Golden.