Health conditions

Head lice

Head lice are tiny insect parasites that live on your head and feed on your scalp (the skin covering your head).

They reproduce by laying their eggs (nits) on your hair shaft (the part of your hair closest to the scalp).

Head lice are not dangerous, do not carry diseases, and are not a sign of poor hygiene (cleanliness).

How do you get head lice?
What are the signs and symptoms of head lice?
How can I check for head lice?
What if I find head lice?
How can I prevent further outbreaks?

Acknowledgements

Environmental Health


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