How can lice be transferred? - briefly
Lice move primarily via direct head‑to‑head contact and by sharing items such as combs, brushes, hats, hair accessories, pillows, or bedding that have recently touched an infested scalp.
How can lice be transferred? - in detail
Lice move from one host to another primarily through direct head‑to‑head contact. This contact may occur during play, sports, or close personal interaction. The insects cling to hair shafts and can crawl across the scalp within seconds.
Secondary pathways involve objects that contact hair or skin. Items that frequently transmit lice include:
- Combs, brushes, hair accessories, hats, scarves, and helmets.
- Bedding such as pillowcases, sheets, blankets, and towels.
- Clothing that touches the scalp, especially caps and sweaters.
- Shared upholstery in vehicles, couches, or dormitory furniture.
Lice survive off a host for a limited time, generally 24‑48 hours, depending on temperature and humidity. During this interval, they may embed in fabric fibers or remain on smooth surfaces, awaiting contact with a suitable host.
Body lice spread mainly through contaminated clothing and bedding. Infested garments provide a secure environment for the insects to lay eggs and develop. Changing and laundering clothing at temperatures of at least 130 °F (54 °C) eliminates the parasites.
Pubic lice, or crab lice, transfer through sexual contact or close skin‑to‑skin interaction. Sharing towels, underwear, or bedding can also facilitate spread, though these routes are less common.
Environmental factors influencing transmission include crowded living conditions, limited access to hygiene resources, and inadequate laundering facilities. High humidity prolongs lice viability on fabrics, increasing the likelihood of indirect transfer.
Understanding these mechanisms allows targeted interventions, such as avoiding head contact, not sharing personal items, and maintaining regular laundering practices.