Lice: where do they come from in children? - briefly
Head lice in children spread mainly through direct head‑to‑head contact, especially during school or playtime interactions. They can also be transferred via shared items such as hats, hairbrushes, or headphones.
Lice: where do they come from in children? - in detail
Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) spread primarily through direct head‑to‑head contact. Children in close‑proximity settings—classrooms, playgrounds, sports teams, and camps—exchange hair while playing, sharing personal items, or sitting together. The insects cannot jump or fly; they crawl from one scalp to another when heads touch for a few seconds.
Key pathways include:
- Physical contact: Hand‑to‑head or shoulder‑to‑shoulder contact during group activities.
- Shared accessories: Hats, scarves, hairbrushes, combs, headphones, and helmets that are not cleaned regularly.
- Environmental reservoirs: Upholstered furniture, car seats, and bedding can harbor nits for a short period, though transmission from these sources is less common.
Infestation risk rises with factors such as:
- High density of children in a single environment.
- Inadequate hygiene practices, including infrequent washing of hair accessories.
- Limited awareness of early signs, leading to delayed detection and continued spread.
Effective control requires prompt identification of live lice or viable nits, immediate treatment of the affected child, and simultaneous examination of close contacts. Cleaning personal items in hot water (≥130 °F/54 °C) or using a sealed bag for two weeks eliminates residual eggs. Regular education of parents, teachers, and caregivers about transmission routes reduces recurrence.