Head Lice

Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp and in hair. They are very common in kids. Having lice does not mean you are dirty. Lice spread easily and can be treated.

How Lice Spread

Lice crawl from one head to another when people are close together. They cannot jump or fly. Sharing hats, combs, or pillows can also spread lice.

Lice are most common among kids ages three to eleven. They can happen to anyone, no matter how clean your hair is.

Getting Rid of Lice

Special shampoos can kill lice. You need to comb through the hair with a fine-toothed comb to remove the lice and their eggs, called nits. Wash bedding and clothes in hot water.

Check everyone in the family. If one person has lice, others might too. With the right treatment, lice go away completely.

Fun Facts

• A single louse can lay up to ten eggs per day.
• Lice have been around for millions of years. Scientists have found them on ancient mummies.
• Lice can only survive about one to two days without a human host.

Did You Know?

Head lice have special claws shaped perfectly to grip onto human hair!