What are lice called in a child? - briefly
In children the infestation is called head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis). The designation remains the same regardless of the host’s age.
What are lice called in a child? - in detail
Lice that infest the scalp of a young person are medically identified as Pediculus humanus capitis. The common English name for this parasite is “head louse.” When the eggs are attached to hair shafts they are called “nits.” The adult insect, the nymph, and the egg together constitute a single infestation episode.
The life cycle proceeds as follows:
- Egg (nit): incubates for 7–10 days; firmly glued to hair near the scalp.
- Nymph: hatches from the egg, undergoes three molts over 9–12 days.
- Adult: reaches reproductive maturity after the final molt; lives up to 30 days on the host.
Typical clinical signs include itching caused by the bite, visible nits on the hair shaft, and occasional red macules on the scalp. Diagnosis relies on direct visual inspection with a fine-toothed comb or magnification.
Effective management options are:
- Topical pediculicides: permethrin 1 % lotion, pyrethrin‑based products, or dimethicone preparations applied according to label instructions.
- Mechanical removal: wet combing with a fine-toothed comb for 10 minutes, repeated every 2–3 days for at least two weeks.
- Environmental control: washing clothing and bedding in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or sealing items in a plastic bag for two weeks to kill dormant lice.
Prevention strategies focus on avoiding head-to-head contact, not sharing personal items such as hats or brushes, and conducting regular scalp checks in settings where outbreaks are common (e.g., schools, day‑care centers).