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Pediculosis
(head lice, body lice, pubic lice, cooties, crabs)
What is pediculosis?
Pediculosis is an infestation of the hairy parts of the body or clothing
with the eggs, larvae or adults of lice. The crawling stages of this
insect feed on human blood which can result in severe itching. Head
lice are usually located on the scalp, crab lice in the pubic area and
body lice along seams of clothing which travel to the skin to feed.
Who gets pediculosis?
Anyone may become louse infested under suitable conditions of exposure.
Pediculosis is easily transmitted from person to person during direct
contact. Head lice infestations are frequently found in school settings
or institutions. Crab lice infestations can be found among sexually
active individuals. Body lice infestation can be found in people living
in crowded, unsanitary conditions where clothing is infrequently changed
or laundered.
How is pediculosis spread?
For both head lice and body lice, transmission can occur during direct
contact with an infested individual. Sharing of clothing and combs or
brushes may also result in transmission of these insects. While other
means are possible, crab lice are most often transmitted through sexual
contact.
What are the symptoms of pediculosis?
Usually, the first indication of an infestation is the itching or
scratching in the area of the body where the lice feed. Scratching at
the back of the head or around the ears should lead to an examination
for head louse eggs (nits) on the hair. Itching around the genital area
should lead to an examination for crab lice or their eggs. Scratching
can be sufficiently intense to result in secondary bacterial infection
in these areas.
How soon do symptoms appear?
It may take as long as two to three weeks or longer for a person to
notice the intense itching associated with this infestation.
For how long is a person able to spread pediculosis?
Pediculosis can be spread as long as lice or eggs remain alive on
the infested person or clothing. What is the treatment for pediculosis?
Medicated shampoos or cream rinses containing lindane or pyrethrins
are used to kill lice. Products containing pyrethrins are available
over-the-counter, but those containing lindane are available only through
a physician's prescription. Lindane is not recommended for infants,
young children and pregnant or lactating women. Retreatment after seven
to 10 days is recommended to assure that no eggs have survived. Nit
combs are available to help remove nits from hair. Dose and duration
of shampoo treatment should be followed according to label instructions.
What can be done to prevent the spread of pediculosis?
Physical contact with infested individuals and their belongings, especially
clothing, headgear and bedding should be avoided. Health education on
the life history of lice, proper treatment and the importance of laundering
clothing and bedding in hot water (140°F for 20 minutes) or dry cleaning
to destroy lice and eggs is extremely valuable. In addition, regular
direct inspection of children for head lice, and when indicated, of
body and clothing, particularly of children in schools, institutions,
nursing homes and summer camps, is important.
Source: NY State Department of Health
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