From School to Scalp: Where Do Lice Come From?
Lice–those tiny, itchy invaders that seem to show up out of nowhere. If you’ve ever had to deal with lice, you know the frustration and stress that comes with it. But have you ever wondered, where do lice actually come from? How do they end up on your child’s scalp? And what can you do to prevent them from coming back? Answering these questions will not only give you some peace of mind, but will help you be even more prepared for lice season.
What Are Lice?
Lice are small, parasitic insects that live on human hair and feed on blood from the scalp. These insects are typically the size of a seed, making them very difficult to spot with the naked eye. The two most common types of lice that impact humans are head lice and body lice, with head lice being the most common.
Although incredibly irritating, lice are not dangerous and do not carry diseases. However, the itching and discomfort they cause, coupled with the stigma, can make the experience very overwhelming. Head lice, in particular, are a common concern for school-aged children which is why many parents are often left wondering—where do these bugs come from?
How do Lice Spread?
Unlike many pests, lice do not jump or fly. They rely on direct contact with an infected person to travel from one host to another. The primary way lice is spread is head-to-head contact. This is why school-age children are so susceptible to lice–they play with their friends, hugging each other, jumping, etc. These situations give lice the opportunity to crawl from one child’s head to another.
Lice can also be spread through shared items such as hats, hairbrushes, scarves, or even pillows. If your child shares any of these items with someone who has lice, let's say at a sleepover or at school, they may bring the insects home. Lice luckily are not typically spread through other surfaces such as desks or chairs–they cannot survive for long periods away from the human scalp.
Lice are most commonly spread in environments where people gather closely, such as schools, daycares, camps, and sleepovers. These are the places where the risk of infestation is the highest, but lice can also sometimes make their way into your home in alternative ways. It can be hard to avoid completely, especially in close-knit environments.
Common Places Lice are Found
While lice are commonly associated with schools and children, lice can really spread anywhere where people gather in close contact. Here are some of the most common places:
Schools and Daycares
Children are most likely to contract lice at school, daycare, or camps, where there is frequent close contact with other kids. They may share hats, brushes, or even sleep in close proximity to one another. All of these factors increase the risk of lice spreading.
Slumber Parties and Sleepovers
Any time your child shares a bed or pillow with another child, there is a higher risk of lice spreading. The close contact while sleeping or playing at a slumber party makes it easy for lice to crawl from one child’s hair to another.
Playgrounds and Sports Activities
Children who play close together on playgrounds or in sports activities (like soccer or football) may also be at risk. The potential for head-to-head contact increases the likelihood that lice could spread during physical activities.
Family Gatherings
While less common, lice can also spread within families during close contact. A parent may unknowingly transfer lice to a child through shared pillows or brushes, or even when giving a hug.
How can you Prevent Lice?
Now that you know the origins of lice and how they spread from one person to another, what can you do to prevent them? While there is no guaranteed method to completely eliminate the risk of lice, there are a few simple ways you can reduce the risk:
Avoid Head-to-Head Contact
The best way to prevent lice is to avoid direct contact with someone who has lice. Teach your children not to share hats, hairbrushes, or scarves with others. If your child has a friend who has been diagnosed with lice, encourage them to be extra cautious and avoid close contact.
Check Regularly
One of the most important ways to prevent lice from becoming an issue (potentially for many people) is to catch them early. Regularly check your child’s hair for lice and nits, especially if they’ve been in close, head-to-head contact with other kids. Look for small, oval-shaped eggs (nits) near the roots of the hair, and for small-crawling insects that might be lice. Make sure to check thoroughly, separating the hair into sections to gain a comprehensive view.
Treat Lice Quickly
If you find lice, it’s important to treat them as soon as possible. Lice are easier to remove when caught early, and quick treatment helps prevent the infestation from spreading to others in the household. Using an effective lice treatment, such as the Licefreee Kit or Licefreee Spray,will help eliminate lice and nits quickly and safely. Both are non-toxic options that work without harsh chemicals, making them safe for your child and the whole family.
Clean Bedding and Personal Items
If your child has lice, it’s important to wash bedding, hats, clothing, and hairbrushes in hot water to kill any lice or nits that may have been transferred. Use an eliminating product for the home, such as Licefreee Home to kill any insects infesting your space and personal items. This is an easy spray to quickly and safely remove those pesky bugs. If you need a home remedy, use a hot dryer to dry clothes, blankets, and sheets for at least 30 minutes. Items that can’t be washed should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks to ensure that any lice are killed.
