Head Lice

Definition

Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp. They can be spread by close contact with other people.

These lice only live in hair and occasionally eyebrows and eyelashes.

See also:

• Body lice
• Pubic lice

Symptoms

• Intense itching of the scalp
• Small, red bumps on the scalp, neck, and shoulders (bumps may become crusty and ooze)
• Tiny white specks (eggs, or nits) on the bottom of each hair that are hard to get off

Lice on scalp and clothing may be difficult to see, unless the infestation is heavy. If you see something moving, it's called a louse.

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