Where are lice usually found? - briefly
Lice are most commonly found on the human scalp, especially in hair near the neck and behind the ears. They can also inhabit hats, combs, pillows, and other personal items that contact the head.
Where are lice usually found? - in detail
Lice are ectoparasites that inhabit specific regions of their hosts and surrounding environments. Their distribution depends on species, host type, and living conditions.
- Head‑dwelling lice – primarily infest the scalp and hair shafts of humans. They are most common among school‑age children, but can be found in any age group where hair is present. Eggs (nits) are attached close to the scalp, making detection easier on the hair collar.
- Body lice – reside in the seams of clothing, especially undergarments and outer garments, and move to the skin only to feed. They thrive in situations where clothing is not changed or washed regularly, such as in crowded shelters, prisons, or among individuals with limited hygiene resources.
- Pubic lice – colonize coarse hair in the genital region, perianal area, and occasionally chest or abdominal hair. Transmission occurs mainly through close personal contact, including sexual activity.
- Animal lice – affect a wide range of mammals and birds. For mammals, they are found on fur, often concentrated around the neck, ears, and tail. Avian lice inhabit feathers, preferring the vent and wing regions. Infestations are typical in livestock, pets, and wild animals kept in dense populations.
Environmental reservoirs include bedding, towels, hats, combs, and shared personal items. Lice can survive off the host for a limited period, generally up to 48 hours for head lice and longer for body lice when protected within fabric folds. Regular laundering at temperatures above 60 °C or dry cleaning effectively eliminates them.
Understanding these habitats assists in targeted control measures, such as thorough hair examination for scalp infestations, frequent laundering of clothing for body lice, and avoidance of shared personal items to reduce transmission.