Busting lice myths: Understanding causes and effective solutions

What do lice look like? Lice are small, wingless insects that feed on human blood. Their piercing-sucking mouthparts allow them to survive on the host's scalp. The human louse is a parasite incorrectly linked with poor hygiene. Anyone can become infested, regardless of hair cleanliness or sanitary conditions.

Where do lice come from? Lice infestations most commonly occur through direct contact with an infested person, especially in settings like schools and nurseries where children gather. Children are the primary risk group due to their close contact during group play, which increases the likelihood of lice transferring from one head to another.

Lice can also be contracted through contact with infested towels, brushes and combs, hair accessories, bed linens, and crowded public transport.

Recognising lice can be challenging, particularly at the early stages of an infestation. Lice can easily be mistaken for dandruff because nits, or louse eggs, are white or light yellow and are firmly attached to the hair. As the parasite develops, it causes the characteristic itching of the scalp, triggered by bites from adult lice.

Itching can lead to persistent scratching, which in turn causes small wounds on the scalp. As a result, scabs may form on the skin and, in extreme cases, swollen lymph nodes may appear around the neck. Early identification of symptoms is crucial because lice can quickly spread to other household members, worsening the problem.

When dealing with lice, it is crucial to use appropriate treatment methods and maintain good hygiene. One of the most effective ways to remove lice is through specialised treatments available in pharmacies. These products, such as shampoos or lice lotions, contain active ingredients that eliminate adult lice and their eggs, known as nits.

Prevention also includes regularly checking a child's head, particularly around the ears and nape of the neck, where lice and nits are most commonly found. It is also advisable to disinfect personal items such as brushes, towels, and bedding to prevent the further spread of the parasites.

Lice are often mistakenly associated solely with poor hygiene, making this topic embarrassing. In reality, lice infestation is a problem that can affect anyone, irrespective of cleanliness standards. Ignoring this fact leads to neglect of control and preventive measures, which facilitates the spread of parasites.