What is the Head Louse: A Common Hair Parasite?
Discover the head louse, a tiny parasite that infests human hair, and learn how to prevent it.
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The parasite that can live in human hair is the head louse (Pediculus humanus capitis). Head lice are tiny insects that attach to the scalp and hair shafts, feeding on human blood. To prevent an infestation, avoid head-to-head contact, don't share personal items like combs or hats, and regularly inspect and clean hair.
FAQs & Answers
- How can I tell if I have head lice? Common signs include itching on the scalp, small red bumps, and the presence of lice or eggs (nits) in the hair.
- What are effective treatments for head lice? Over-the-counter treatments such as permethrin lotion, as well as manual removal of lice and nits using a fine-toothed comb, are effective.
- Can head lice be transmitted through sharing hair accessories? Yes, sharing items like combs or hats can lead to the spread of head lice.
- Are head lice harmful to health? Head lice primarily cause itching and discomfort but do not transmit diseases.