Head lice myths and facts

Pediculosis (Lice Infestation) is a common condition.

  • There are between 6 and 12 million cases of head lice each year.
  • Head lice are the second most common condition among children – second only to the common cold.
  • About 80 percent of schools across the country have at least one outbreak of head lice per year. Anyone can get head lice
  • Pre-school and elementary aged children (those aged 3 to 12) are most commonly infested, girls more frequently than boys.
  • Lice infestation is not due to poor hygiene. In fact, lice prefer to live on clean heads. Head lice spread easily by direct contact
  • Head lice can be spread whenever there is direct contact between the head or hair with an infested individual.
  • Lice can also be spread through the sharing of personal articles like hats, towels, brushes, helmets, hair ties, etc.
  • There is also a possibility of spreading head lice via a pillow, headrest or similar items.
  • Humans cannot get head lice from pets.

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