Head lice can be spread whenever there is direct contact of the head or hair with an infested individual. Lice can also be spread through the sharing of personal articles like hats, towels, brushes, helmets, hair ties, etc. There is also a possibility of spreading head lice via a pillow, headrest or similar items.

Tickling feeling of something moving in the hair. Itching, caused by an allergic reaction to the bites of the head louse. Irritability and difficulty sleeping; head lice are most active in the dark Sores on the head caused by scratching.

Head lice can survive on a human host for approximately 30 days. They generally cannot survive longer than 24 hours off the host. A female lice lays 3-5 eggs a day. The eggs hatch in 7-10 days and it takes another 7-10 day for the louse to mature and lay their own eggs.

Head lice are human parasites and require human blood to survive. They are not environmental pests so pesticidal sprays for furniture and bedding are unnecessary and a serious risk to health. Vacuuming is the safest and best way to remove lice or fallen hairs with attached nits from upholstered furniture, rugs, stuffed animals and cars.

Head lice do NOT have hind legs to hop or jump. They also do NOT have wings and cannot fly.

Swimming with someone who has lice carries no greater risk of transmission than any other activity. When lice are in water, they go into a state of suspended animation but remain firmly locked onto the hair – literally hanging on for dear life. This is how they survive shampooing, rain, seawater and swimming pools.